Neretva mandarins harvested for first time in history in 20°C temperatures

Mandarines

The fertile soil of Croatia’s Neretva River delta, stretching between Ploče, Metković, and Opuzen, is home to expansive citrus orchards. Known as “Croatia’s California” for its abundant agricultural yield, this region has truly earned its title.

For the first time in history, the famous mandarin harvest in Neretva Valley is taking place under unusually high temperatures, creating unexpected challenges for producers and impacting the crop.

In the Neretva Valley, around 80 percent of the estimated 30,000 tonnes of mandarins have been harvested.

Neretva

For the first time on record, mandarins are being picked in temperatures above 20°C, which is confusing both the plants and the producers and also encourages the spread of pests.

The mandarin harvest has been ongoing for nearly a month and a half. About 75% of the crop has already been delivered to the market. Producers say this season is better than last year’s, but they’ve never discussed the end of the harvest and preparations for the next season this early.

“My small orchard, which was supposed to be harvested in about fifteen days, is already bare, so I’ve started pruning because it’s just too warm,” producer Velibor Šuman told HRT.

Known as a remedy for autumn colds, this year the mandarin, they joke, is a refreshing treat in the heat. In large collection centres, the fruit is constantly sorted.

Demand remains strong, though producers believe it would be even higher if temperatures were lower.

“Today it’s 30 degrees during the harvest. Now, just imagine—citrus fruits are usually enjoyed at around 14 degrees. What would the demand be if the temperature were around 14 or 15 degrees, which is normal for November?” producer and buyer Gradimir Šešelj said to HRT.

High temperatures pose problems for transport to more distant markets, favour pest development on plantations, and lead to other unusual natural occurrences.

At Vidrica in the Neretva Valley, the end of October feels like the beginning of spring.

Mandarines

Clementines, often called “Christmas fruit,” are nearly ready for harvest, and some citrus trees are even flowering again, clearly confused by the high temperatures reaching up to 25°C.

“This isn’t normal; it’s not natural. I should be wearing a thicker jacket by now. But we have to pick the fruit early, or it will rot on the tree in a month’s time, with the peel separating from the mandarin because it’s overripe,” said producer Jurica Mušan.

“With a lot of effort and the support of experts, we must see this through. I’m calling on the Ministry and agronomists throughout Croatia to get involved, to tackle the Mediterranean fruit fly, and to help secure the future of mandarin farming,” urged Šešelj.

Despite these challenges, mandarins continue to do well in the market. According to the State Inspectorate, only verified, high-quality fruit leaves the collection centres.