09/09/2026
The end of a hot and dry summer.
The past months have brought high temperatures and long periods of drought to Belgium.
According to the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium, the summer of 2026 could go down as the hottest summer since measurements began in 1833.
The extreme weather is having a significant impact on fruit cultivation, such as apples and pears.
The sector expects apple production to be around 22% below the average, while pear production is forecast to be 7% below average.
Sunburn, hailstorms and drought are among the main factors affecting this year’s harvest.
Prices will increase and at the same time, the fruit is expected to be smaller than usual, but apples and pears will also be sweeter this year.
And the impact may not stop with this year's harvest. Fruit growers are concerned about the longer-term effects on their orchards, as drought and heat can damage trees and their root systems.
