Planting Seeds Again After the Heatwave

The recent record-breaking heatwaves have left a harsh mark on agriculture, with farmers struggling to salvage their crops. In South Korea, the intense heat, caused by a combination of high-pressure systems, trapped the Korean peninsula in a "heat dome." While city dwellers could seek refuge indoors, farmers toiled under the relentless sun.

For crops like tomatoes, which bear fruit during the summer, the heat proved devastating. The author, a farmer, observed that the heat prevented proper pollination for the upper sections of tomato plants, leading to a drastic reduction in yield. This year's losses were more severe than in previous heat-affected seasons, leaving the fields looking sparse and disheartening.

The impact extends beyond South Korea. Major olive-producing countries like Spain, Greece, and Italy are reporting significant drops in olive harvests due to temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius and severe drought. Grape harvests are also expected to suffer in both quantity and quality, with some trees even dying from the extreme conditions.

As farmers plant autumn vegetables like cabbage, radish, and carrots in the wake of the heat, the article poses a critical question about the future of agriculture. Can farmers continue to sustain their livelihoods? With global food production threatened, the author expresses a sense of despair, noting a lack of serious concern for declining agricultural output. The act of planting anew, however, signifies the enduring spirit of farmers who, despite the bleak outlook, continue their essential work.