After the plants’ dormant period, coffee growing enters a crucial phase: the flowering stage. This moment marks the beginning of the production cycle for the next crop and it’s a point of attention for the market, which closely monitors the weather conditions in the main producing countries. The weather forecast in Brazil plays an important role in the prices on the NY stock exchange, as the country is the largest producer of arabica coffee in the world.
The relationship between weather conditions and flowering is essential for future productivity. It is therefore essential to keep a close eye on forecasts and market developments to understand how these factors can influence the success of the crop.
But what is the connection between the volume of rainfall and coffee flowering?
The role of rainfall in flower development
The water regime during flowering directly affects what we call “setting”, i.e. the fixation of the flowers on the plant. When regular and in adequate volumes, rainfall favors this fixation and therefore the initial development of the fruit. However, irregular or insufficient rainfall can compromise both the quantity and the development of the grains that will be harvested. The consistency of this regime is essential for a promising crop.
We can say that flowering is the first indicator of a crop’s productivity, as each flower can turn into a fruit, meaning that the more flowers are set, the more fruit there will be on the plant.
Normally, coffee plantations in Brazil have two to three flowering phases per crop, the first being the most significant. This initial phase consumes most of the plant’s energy and lays the foundations for productivity.
Other determining factors for a good flowering season
In addition to natural conditions, coffee growers adopt management techniques to face climatic variations and guarantee a healthy flowering stage. Soil conservation, efficient use of irrigation and sustainable practices are key to mitigating the challenges of water irregularity, ensuring the necessary support for flower development. Adequate irrigation can compensate for the lack of rainfall, while mulching the soil helps retain moisture and protect the roots.
Although coffee is a self-pollinated plant, the presence of pollinators, such as bees, can also favor flowering, especially in adverse conditions. Pollinators can increase the efficiency of pollination and positively influence the quantity of beans.
The supply of nutrients, such as potassium and phosphorus, is crucial for the health of flowers, and the correct management of these elements helps to minimize negative impacts. In addition, it is essential to implement preventative measures against diseases and pests, especially during the wet flowering period, guaranteeing the health of the plants.
Continuous monitoring by coffee growers allows for quick adjustments, such as corrections to irrigation and nutrient supplementation when necessary. This care ensures that each bloom reaches its maximum potential, contributing to the stability and quality of production.