This year, Bulgaria’s corn farmers are confronting a grim reality—complete crop failure due to extreme heat and prolonged drought. According to reports from bourgas.ru, rising temperatures have left fields in the Ruse region barren, with no hope of harvest. Farmers in Slivo Pole report that corn has dried out before maturing, making it impossible for combines to even enter the fields.
Stanimir Stanchev, a grain producer with 13 years of experience, explains: “The cobs cannot fill with quality grain. We also expect minimal sunflower yields, meaning we’re accumulating serious losses for next year. But we can’t fight nature.”
The Search for Alternatives: Can Farmers Adapt?
With unreliable weather and insufficient irrigation, Bulgarian farmers are being forced to explore alternative crops. Stanchev highlights the dilemma: “We won’t plant sunflowers or corn—so what’s left? Maybe photovoltaic systems? We’re considering rapeseed or peas, but these require time, investment, and may not be economically viable.”
Some, like Milen Koev, are turning to more resilient crops like milk thistle (Silybum marianum), which thrives in harsh conditions and is in high demand in Western Europe’s pharmaceutical industry. “Milk thistle is rich in silymarin, used in 90% of cardiovascular medicines,” says Koev. However, contract farming is essential, as the crop cannot be grown speculatively.
Irrigation Funding Falls Short
While the Bulgarian government has allocated an additional 30 million leva (€15 million) for irrigation, farmers argue that modernizing the country’s outdated infrastructure would require at least €1 billion. Without significant investment, climate resilience remains out of reach.
A Sector at a Crossroads
Bulgaria’s agricultural sector is at a tipping point. With corn and sunflower yields collapsing, farmers must either adapt with high-risk alternative crops or face financial ruin. Long-term solutions—such as large-scale irrigation upgrades and climate-resistant farming practices—are urgently needed to prevent further crises.
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