In May, ground-level frosts were recorded across almost the entire territory of Poland. In some areas, temperatures dropped several degrees below zero, causing severe damage to agriculture and horticulture. Crop losses in some regions have reached up to 90%, affecting not only fruits and grains but also a variety of vegetables. Authorities have already begun preparing support programs for farmers affected by the frost.
“Frosts mainly impacted fruit production, but also rapeseed and other crops. Currently, special commissions are evaluating the extent of the damage. This is a lengthy process, as we need to assess yields at a particular stage of development. However, we are confident that we will be able to support those farmers who suffered the most,” said Dr. Czesław Siekierski, Poland’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, in an interview with Newseria.
According to data from the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management (IMGW-PIB), this May is among the coldest in years. The smallest deviation from the 1991–2020 norm was recorded in Świnoujście (-0.8°C), while the largest occurred in Kętrzyn and Suwałki (-4.6°C). The first half of May was particularly cold, with ground temperatures falling several degrees below zero across much of the country. These frosts may not be the last this season. The situation is further exacerbated by ongoing hydrological droughts, despite recent slight improvements. Low nighttime temperatures combined with dry soil significantly reduce plants’ chances for regeneration.
Farmers can now report damages, which will be assessed by municipal commissions. Only after these evaluations will decisions be made about potential compensation or subsidies for the affected farms.
“This process involves analysis, measurements, and identification. The results will be reviewed at the provincial level, and then by the Ministry. We hope to be able to allocate compensation accordingly,” the Minister explained.
According to the Ministry, the loss assessment reports will form the basis for farmers to apply for aid under current legislation. This includes preferential loans to resume production, social insurance payment relief, deferrals or installment plans for leasing or purchasing state-owned agricultural land, and tax relief on agricultural land.
“We can’t talk about specific funding yet, as the damage estimates are still pending. Of course, compensation levels will depend on budget capacity. We always strive to help farmers as much as we can, but the aid rarely covers 100% of the losses,” added Dr. Siekierski.
In 2024, fruit and grape producers affected by spring frosts received €37 million in EU funds and €74 million from the national budget – totaling around 470 million PLN in financial support.
This year’s frosts are expected to hit fruit growers the hardest. For apple trees, temperatures between -2°C and -4°C during the flowering phase can destroy up to 90% of blossoms. At -8°C, the risk of damage is significantly higher, particularly for early-blooming species like apricots and cherries. Rapeseed and potato growers also reported significant losses.
“These were not frosts on a scale that would significantly reduce production volumes. Some impact on prices is likely, but we are not anticipating a major increase,” said the Minister of Agriculture.
