Dopad klimatických zmien na vinohradníctvo Nitrianskeho kraja – predikcie vývoja a terénny výskum

Abstract

Ongoing global climate changes bring new challenges for the viticulture sector as well. The aim of the paper was to explore the impact of climate change on viticulture in the Nitra Region, using the prediction of the average annual air temperature and total atmospheric precipitation for the years 2050 and 2080 under a moderate emission scenario (RCP4.5) and the results of field research. We applied statistical-mathematical methods to the processing of statistical data. When comparing multi-year and annual climatic phenomena, we used the historical-geographical, comparative, and cartographic method. After applying the emission scenario to the Nitra Region in the forecast years 2050 and 2080, the expected increase in the average annual air temperature was confirmed and we found a reduction in the difference in total precipitation in areas with different altitudes. 29 winemaking entities of the region perceive the current impacts of climate change as a lower amount of precipitation and a drier climate, and 22 entities as higher air temperatures and the amount of sunshine. Each entity solves climate change problems differently, e.g. by harvesting grapes earlier, by increasing protection against a higher incidence of diseases and pests, or they started growing vine varieties resistant to higher temperatures and drought.