Struggling Season for Latvian Watermelons This Year
The demand for Latvian-grown watermelons is on the rise, and the number of growers is increasing, but cool summer nights in 2025 have negatively impacted watermelon cultivation. According to local farmers, the cooler temperatures at night during the summer have slowed the ripening process and shortened the growing season, potentially affecting yields and harvest timing.
Watermelon requires warm daytime and nighttime temperatures for optimal growth and sugar accumulation. Cool nights can reduce the rate of sugar production and fruit maturation, leading to delayed harvest and possibly lower fruit quality. This challenge is consistent with Latvia's northern European climate, which is less ideal for watermelons compared to warmer southern European countries where production is higher.
Despite the difficulties, the cultivation of watermelons has been booming in Latvia in recent years. As of 30 June 2025, almost 30 hectares had already been registered for watermelon cultivation support. One of the growers, Mareks Kantāns, has 50 varieties of watermelons this year. However, he finds the cultivation of watermelons unsuccessful compared to previous years due to the cooler temperatures.
In greenhouses, the climate is dry, which is beneficial for watermelons. However, rainy and cloudy weather in greenhouses can lead to withering and rotting of watermelon plants. This year, the first watermelons were harvested in early June in greenhouses, but there is no hope for watermelons weighing up to 20 kilograms.
The cool nights in Latvia are very cold, with ground temperatures below -10 degrees this spring. This cool weather can cause watermelons to grow, but they may not be sweet or juicy due to lack of heat. According to data from the association Latvijas dārznieks (Latvian Gardener), the situation is also difficult for other crops that love warmth.
Despite the challenges this year, the watermelon industry in Latvia has been thriving in recent years. Some watermelon growers are achieving good results, but success can vary from year to year. Despite the setbacks in 2025, it is expected that the demand for Latvian-grown watermelons will continue to rise as consumers seek out locally sourced produce.
Due to the cool nights affecting watermelon cultivation in 2025, Mareks Kantāns, a watermelon grower, finds the harvest this year less successful compared to previous ones. Home-and-garden enthusiasts might also face similar challenges as the cool temperatures impact a variety of warm-loving crops, causing difficulties for Latvian farmers. Despite these setbacks, the demand for locally sourced food-and-drink products, such as Latvian-grown watermelons, is still expected to rise.
