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Bad Times for the Brussels sprout
Slovenia🏛️ PoliticsCenter9/8/2026

Bad Times for the Brussels sprout

The article discusses the impact of increasingly hot and dry summers on the cultivation of brstični ohrovt (a type of leafy green vegetable), particularly affecting both British and Slovenian farmers. In the UK, record-breaking temperatures have created favorable conditions for pests like the bolhač (a small insect that feeds on plants from the Apiaceae family). These pests have been damaging crops for 12 weeks, significantly longer than usual, leading to severe damage with up to 70% of leaf surface being eaten. The issue is compounded by restrictions on certain pesticides due to bee protection concerns. In Slovenia, similar challenges have been reported, with extreme heat and drought causing significant crop losses, especially in regions like Pomurje and Podravje. The article notes that while brstični ohrovt remains important for white cabbage production in Slovenia, climate change poses ongoing challenges for growers.

A new challenge has emerged for growers of brstični ohrovt, commonly known as the white cabbage, due to record-breaking heat and drought conditions this summer. In the United Kingdom, unusually high temperatures have created ideal conditions for the small pests called bolhači, which feed on the leaves of these plants. Ecological farms report that these pests have attacked their crops for up to 12 weeks, far exceeding the typical three to four-week period. The damage has been severe, with some areas experiencing up to 70% loss of leaf surface. This has significantly impacted plant growth, resulting in smaller heads and reduced yields. Traditional farmers face additional challenges, as the use of certain insecticides is restricted due to concerns over bee populations. The situation is not unique to Britain. Slovenian farmers who grow cabbages also report increased infestation by bolhači. The Agricultural and Forestry Association of Slovenia notes that these pests are a regular problem, especially targeting young plants. During heavy attacks, they can consume nearly entire leaves. In ecological farming, damage is mitigated through maintaining moist mulch and using attractant plants to draw pests away. This year’s weather in Slovenia was particularly harsh, with the summer of 2026 recorded as the hottest and driest since measurements began in 1950. Average temperatures were 2.8 degrees Celsius above the 1991–2020 average, surpassing previous records set in 2003 and 2024. August alone was the warmest month ever recorded in Slovenia. Rainfall amounted to just 72% of the usual amount. Farmers have felt the impact, with the Ministry of Agriculture reporting that the drought affected the entire country, with the worst-hit regions being Pomurje, Podravje, Primorsko, Dolenjsko, and Lower Sava. Damage estimates reached up to 90% for some crops, with cabbage fields among the most severely affected. Slovenia remains a key producer of cabbages, primarily for white cabbage, which accounted for 17% of all vegetable production in 2025, totaling around 14,042 tons. Overall, more than 80,000 tons of root vegetables were produced. For growers, especially smaller ones, rising temperatures, drought, and pests present a growing challenge, particularly for crops requiring ample water and healthy foliage. While brstični ohrovt may not be as popular in Slovenia as elsewhere, agricultural advisors suggest it is gradually gaining favor. It thrives in moderate temperatures and offers advantages such as cold resistance and late harvests. However, its long growing cycle, around 150 to 240 days, makes it less efficient compared to quicker-growing alternatives like lettuce, tomatoes, beans, or peas. Rising temperatures have placed it at a disadvantage, especially on smaller plots.

How this report was made. Objective News wrote this report from 2 source articles, using AI-assisted synthesis under our methodology. It is our own text, not a copy of any single outlet. Read our methodology.

Responsible editor: Matej BašaSpotted an error? Report it

2 reports

Slovenske novice logoSlovenske noviceIndependentCenterFactual 75Objective 809/8/2026
Bad Times for the Brussels sprout

The article discusses the impact of increasingly hot and dry summers on the cultivation of brstični ohrovt (a type of leafy green vegetable), particularly affecting both British and Slovenian farmers. In the UK, record-breaking temperatures have created favorable conditions for pests like the bolhač (a small insect that feeds on plants from the Apiaceae family). These pests have been damaging crops for 12 weeks, significantly longer than usual, leading to severe damage with up to 70% of leaf surface being eaten. The issue is compounded by restrictions on certain pesticides due to bee protection concerns. In Slovenia, similar challenges have been reported, with extreme heat and drought causing significant crop losses, especially in regions like Pomurje and Podravje. The article notes that while brstični ohrovt remains important for white cabbage production in Slovenia, climate change poses ongoing challenges for growers.

Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about agricultural challenges caused by climate change without overtly favoring any political ideology. It reports on scientific observations, economic impacts, and environmental factors without taking a clear ideological stance. While the topic is related to

Why factuality (75): The article provides detailed information about the impact of high temperatures on brstični ohrovt (a type of plant) and mentions specific effects such as increased damage from bolhači (small insects) and reduced crop yields. It references ecological farms and local Slovenian agricultural cooperativ

Why objectivity (80): The tone remains informative and neutral, presenting both the challenges faced by farmers and the measures being taken, such as the use of insecticides and maintaining humidity. There is no overt bias or emotional language, though the article does highlight the severity of the situation without taki

STA – Slovenska tiskovna agencija logoSTA – Slovenska tiskovna agencijaState / PublicCenterFactual: no official source document/info detectedObjective 909/7/2026
EU Agriculture Ministers in Ireland on supporting farmers to cope with drought

European Union agricultural ministers, including Slovenia's Janez Cigler Kralj, are meeting today at an informal session in Ireland with European Commissioner Christoph Hansen. The discussion focuses on the impacts of this year's drought on European farmers, with agenda items including a strategy for livestock and an EU plan for protein. The meeting aims to address challenges faced by farmers due to the ongoing drought.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a factual report on a meeting between EU agricultural ministers and a commissioner, discussing drought impacts and policy strategies. There is no evident ideological slant, one-sided sourcing, or loaded language. The framing remains neutral, focusing on the event and its purpose

Why factuality: no official source document/info detected

Why objectivity (90): The article presents the event objectively, focusing solely on the participants and the agenda without adding commentary or opinion. The language is formal and neutral, appropriate for a news report.

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