An unusually warm November has disrupted natural cycles in southern Russia: should we expect a poor harvest?

      01 December 2025 17:38 Society

      Due to an abnormally warm autumn and winter in Russia’s southern and central regions, agronomists warn there is a risk of crop failure. Early awakening of trees can weaken them before the cold.

      In Crimea buds have already begun to swell and plants are starting to burst into leaf, Tatyana Oleynik, chair of the regional branch of the "Union of Gardeners of Russia," told 360.ru. A sweet cherry has bloomed on a sunny plot, and buds have appeared on apricot and apple trees. Lilacs and chestnuts have also come into bloom. However, not all trees are reacting the same way: those sheltered from cold winds are swelling faster, while plants in colder spots remain dormant.

      Early flowering is also being observed in other southern regions. In Sochi oleanders have put out leaves, crocuses have bloomed in Voronezh, and mosquitoes have woken up in Belgorod.

      Usually trees prepare for winter in the autumn by slowing down their vital processes. Abnormally warm weather leads to their premature awakening. Trees expend energy on sap flow, weakening them before the cold. Tatyana Oleynik warns that if frosts hit in winter, the swollen buds may be damaged, leading to cracks in the bark, disease, and tree death.

      However, there is hope for a favorable outcome: rains can moisten the soil and save the harvest. A warm autumn and winter give farmers the opportunity to continue sowing. In Crimea 558 hectares have already been sown. With favorable weather, sowing can continue until the New Year holidays.

      For successful cultivation of winter crops it is important to monitor field conditions, combat pests and diseases, and remember that rain is more important than positive temperatures for plant development.

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