Belarusian farmers and gardeners planning to plant potatoes should wait a little longer, according to Ekaterina Istomina, head of the hydrology and agrometeorology service at Belhydromet. Speaking on STV channel, she explained that at a depth of 10 centimeters—critical for tuber growth—the soil temperature remains below the required level. Istomina recommended that agricultural workers hold off until the ground warms up properly. The cool weather is not only delaying potato planting but also affecting winter grain crops, which are currently in the stem-elongation and ear-formation phases. During this period, plants need to grow actively, but the cold is preventing them from absorbing essential nutrients.
Spring crops are facing issues as well. Due to the weather, the time from sowing to sprouting has extended to more than two weeks, which could later negatively impact crop development. However, warmer conditions have finally arrived. Belarus is now experiencing almost summer-like weather, with daytime temperatures reaching +20°C, allowing the soil to start warming. Temperatures in Minsk are forecast to hit +24°C. While rain and a slight cool-down are expected later, snow and frost are no longer a concern.
