Slovenia's Ministry Issues Drought Protection Measures for Farmers

The Ministry of Agriculture, Republic of Slovenia warned that the 2026 summer drought has affected the entire country, with the worst impacts in Pomurje, Podravje, Primorska, Dolenjska and the Lower Posavje region. Crop losses of up to 90 % have been recorded for forage, corn, potatoes, vegetables and other fields, a situation worsened by high temperatures and recent hail storms.

The ministry advised immediate steps to limit damage: apply mulching, avoid granular or animal fertilisers unless rain is expected, use leaf‑fertilisers, irrigate at night or early morning, spray foliar treatments during cooler periods, protect orchards and vegetable beds with shade nets, and avoid deep tillage on dry soils. For winter cereals, early harvest and post‑harvest fertilisation after rain are recommended. The advisory also highlighted the growing use of artificial intelligence in agriculture to optimise processes and improve resilience, underscoring its role in supporting food security amid climate stress.

Farmers are urged to monitor official weather updates, consult agricultural advisors and submit damage claims for hail‑related losses by the deadline of 3 August 2026.