Crop Timing, Phenology, and Climate Impacts on Mediterranean Fruit Trees

Global warming is extending the dry season in Mediterranean regions and advancing the onset of the pre-spring period, typically marked by increased humidity and moderate temperatures that promote flowering. As a result, fruit trees in the Rosaceae family—such as almond, cherry, plum, and pear—are experiencing earlier flowering. This premature shift often leads to reduced yields, lower fruit quality, and significant economic losses for growers.

Source: Salvo Tierra, Á. E., & Picornell Rodríguez, A. (2024). The consequences of earlier flowering. University of Málaga.