The pumpkin harvest in Steiermark has been marked by both promising results and significant challenges this year. According to the Agrarische Informationszentrum (AIZ), the recent ideal weather conditions—characterized by abundant sunshine and well-distributed rainfall—have contributed to the maturation of Steiermark’s pumpkin seeds, ensuring their excellent quality. Franz Labugger, Chairman of the Steirisches Kürbiskernöl community, highlighted that the seeds are expected to produce a distinctly nutty-flavored “Green Gold,” a hallmark of high-quality pumpkin oil.
However, the growing season was far from smooth. Early spring brought severe weather conditions, including flooding and hailstorms, which severely impacted many pumpkin fields. These adverse weather events affected around 1,500 hectares of crops, resulting in an estimated total damage of approximately €2.5 million. Despite these setbacks, the yield is projected to be around 675 kilograms of seeds per hectare, which is considered average for this year.
One significant factor that helped mitigate potential losses was the use of a new seed treatment product. This beizmittel, or seed treatment, proved crucial in protecting young plants from soil-dwelling pests, ensuring that the crop could reach maturity despite earlier disruptions. Labugger emphasized the importance of having effective and practical seed treatments available for future planting seasons to safeguard against similar challenges.
In terms of market impact, the price of Steirisches Kürbiskernöl g.g.A. (Protected Geographical Indication) is expected to remain stable with only minor adjustments. Producers will absorb increased costs related to labor, logistics, and packaging, reflecting the industry’s resilience and commitment to maintaining product quality despite economic pressures.
This year, Steiermark saw a significant increase in the cultivation area, with a total of 9,901 hectares dedicated to pumpkin production, marking a 26% rise from the previous year. However, the damage from weather events means that approximately 15% of this area faced varying degrees of impairment.
Currently, there are 1,100 pumpkin farmers in Steiermark, who are united under the Steirisches Kürbiskernöl g.g.A. community. Notably, 40% of the region’s pumpkin seed oil is exported, showcasing its importance in international markets. Producing one liter of pumpkin seed oil requires between 2.1 and 2.5 kilograms of seeds, reflecting the concentration of quality in each bottle.
Despite the challenging weather conditions impacting this year’s pumpkin harvest in Steiermark, the high quality of the pumpkin seeds holds promise for the production of exceptional pumpkin seed oil. The use of effective seed treatments and the resilience of local farmers will play a crucial role in overcoming current hurdles and maintaining the quality and stability of the product in the market.
