Coffee Growers in Risaralda Warned of Rising Pest Threats Amid El Niño Conditions

The Comité de Cafeteros de Risaralda has issued a preventive alert to coffee producers in the Colombian department, warning of potential increases in coffee rust and coffee borer beetle infestations due to rising temperatures linked to the El Niño phenomenon, according to Héctor León Hoyos, director of Technical Extension at the committee.

Why Are Coffee Growers Concerned About El Niño?

El Niño, a climatic event characterized by abnormal warming of ocean surface temperatures in the Pacific, is projected to intensify between July and August 2024, according to the Comité de Cafeteros de Risaralda. Higher temperatures accelerate the spread of coffee rust, a fungal disease, and the reproduction of the coffee borer beetle, a major pest. “The higher temperatures have a direct impact on the incidence of rust and the multiplication of the borer beetle,” Hoyos stated.

What Infestation Levels Should Farmers Monitor?

The committee advises farmers to keep coffee borer beetle infestation and coffee rust incidence below 2% to avoid severe crop damage. “If this threshold is exceeded, control measures must be implemented immediately to prevent the problem from spreading,” Hoyos said.

How Can Farmers Combat Pest Spread?

Farmers are urged to conduct regular field inspections and take proactive steps, including removing dried, overripe, or fallen coffee cherries to eliminate breeding grounds for pests. “This practice reduces the spaces where the borer beetle can reproduce,” Hoyos explained.

Why Is Fertilization Before El Niño Critical?

The committee recommends leveraging current rainfall to apply fertilizers before the dry season linked to El Niño. “Fertilizing now allows plants to absorb nutrients effectively, strengthening them against heat and disease,” Hoyos said. This practice is expected to improve grain quality, productivity, and resilience to climate stressors.

What Actions Are Key to Protecting the 2024 Harvest?

The next few weeks are critical for ensuring a healthy harvest between September and October, the committee emphasized. Farmers are advised to maintain communication with extension services, conduct continuous monitoring, and follow technical recommendations. “The actions taken this month will determine the success of the harvest,” Hoyos noted.

FAQ: Coffee Rust and Borer Beetle in Risaralda

What is the main threat to coffee crops in Risaralda?

Coffee rust and the coffee borer beetle are the primary threats, exacerbated by El Niño-driven heat.

What are the recommended infestation thresholds?

Infestation levels for the borer beetle and rust incidence should remain below 2%.

How can farmers reduce pest populations?

Removing dried or fallen coffee cherries and conducting regular field inspections are key.

Why is timing important for fertilization?

Fertilizing during rainy periods ensures plants absorb nutrients before the dry season, improving resilience.

When is El Niño expected to peak in Risaralda?

The phenomenon is projected to intensify between July and August 2024.