Long periods of heat and drought present new challenges for local farmers. They look for alternatives and rely on southern fruits and vegetables.
That was unthinkable 20 years ago: the cultivation of fruit from the countries of the south. But longer growing seasons and higher temperatures make it possible: Scientists and farmers are already exploring how to best exploit the effects of climate change.
“It’s about new cultivation systems, irrigation methods, energy-saving options and the switch to renewable energy sources,” explains Erich Roscher of the Carinthian Chamber of Agriculture. “In the future we will focus strongly on tropical crops, because that is now very possible here – we see a lot of potential for this, especially in direct marketing!” And some farmers have already benefited from the milder climate.
Carinthian farming family successfully relies on exotics
Melons, physalis, cucumbers, lemons, peppers, Inca carrots, okra, tomatillos, sweet potatoes, lemongrass – some of these foreign fruits and vegetables may be familiar, while others may be completely unknown. But on the organic farm of the Tauschitz family in Hörtendorf near Klagenfurt, these exotic fruits grow locally.
“We are taking advantage of the effects of climate change and adapting our cultivation to the high temperatures,” says Anna Tauschitz, who took over her parents’ farm six years ago with her husband Joel Flük. Her husband is from Argentina. “Of course we use his knowledge of cultivation in southern countries. We want to try everything that is possible with us, that can grow and flourish,” adds mom.
And of course a lot is possible! “Three years ago I imagined growing physalis,” says the Carinthian, who started her project with 20 plants. “And this year I already have a good 600!”
Their exotic fruits are also very popular with customers. Tauschitz: “The demand is enormous. However, many people are completely unfamiliar with foods such as Inca carrots, okra or tomatillos.” Information is therefore important: “We give tips on how to properly process and use the foreign varieties.”
Climate change also offers new opportunities
The young farmer sees climate change as an opportunity. “You have to adapt to the times, not just look at the change from the negative side, but make something of it,” says the 37-year-old, who of course also grows conventional products such as potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, corn and soybeans. .
The Hörtendorfer is motivated and wants to let some other southern cultures sprout from her soil. “This year, for the first time, artichokes are growing out of my soil.” She also already has a small avocado tree at home. “But it will be a few years before we see fruit here,” she laughs. Her biggest dream is a pineapple plantation: “I definitely want to try that.”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
