Rainy spring in Uzbekistan: Crop growth vs. pest risks
In Uzbekistan, a wetter-than-usual spring is proving to be a blessing for agricultural crop development but also presents challenges in the form of increased pest risks.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the precipitation, along with the country's water reservoirs and snow accumulation in the Amudarya and Syrdarya river basins' mountains, are predicted to alleviate 30-35 percent of the anticipated water shortages. This is proving crucial in meeting the water demands for agriculture and retaining soil moisture.
The irrigation season this year requires an estimated 38.2 billion cubic meters of water. This includes 30.2 billion for primary crops and 8 billion for household gardens and secondary plantings in the republic's irrigated zones.
The continuous rain showers are enhancing growth in crucial areas, notably in the cultivation of vegetables, melons, and potatoes. The rains not only clear dust from the leaves, which benefits respiration but also foster quicker photosynthesis due to the increased humidity and moderated temperatures, enhancing nutrient absorption. Additionally, the soft, salt-lacking rainwater optimizes water and gas exchange in the soil.
However, the abundant rains also have their drawbacks, particularly in fruit and vine cultivation. The moisture and warmth create an ideal breeding ground for disease-causing pathogens and pests. Orchard pests like moths and scale insects and vineyard diseases such as anthracnose and mildew are thriving, necessitating the use of pesticides like indoxacarb, thiacloprid, and deltamethrin to combat these threats effectively.
Given these circumstances, it's evident that the rainy spring is a double-edged sword for Uzbekistan's agriculture—providing much-needed water for crops while also fostering conditions that might impede their quality and yield.
Recommended
List of streets and intersections being repaired in Tashkent published
SOCIETY | 19:12 / 16.05.2024
Uzbekistan's flag flies high on Oceania's tallest volcano
SOCIETY | 17:54 / 15.05.2024
New tariffs to be introduced in Tashkent public transport
SOCIETY | 14:55 / 05.05.2023
Onix and Tracker cars withdrawn from sale
BUSINESS | 10:20 / 05.05.2023
Latest news
-
MP slams Employment Ministry as 74,000 budget-funded trainees remain jobless
POLITICS | 19:12 / 10.05.2025
-
Agriculture Ministry comments on soaring meat prices, claims meat in Uzbekistan is cheaper than in neighboring countries
SOCIETY | 17:17 / 10.05.2025
-
Uzbekistan and ADB to launch 23 new projects worth $3.6 billion
SOCIETY | 16:24 / 10.05.2025
-
Banks in Uzbekistan earn 3.41 trillion UZS in Q1, NBU leads the pack
SOCIETY | 16:02 / 10.05.2025
Related News

17:17 / 10.05.2025
Agriculture Ministry comments on soaring meat prices, claims meat in Uzbekistan is cheaper than in neighboring countries

07:55 / 08.05.2025
Uzhydromet warns of potential flooding in eight regions due to heavy rains

15:46 / 11.04.2025
Onion prices surge tenfold in Uzbekistan as farmlands shrink and supply declines

12:22 / 11.04.2025