Farmers say 10–15 cm of snow protects wheat from frost
The snow is providing insulation for the winter wheat, shielding it from the recent frost. Farmers in Drochia report that the wheat is in excellent condition, and the snow cover helps protect the plants until spring. They are hopeful for a bountiful, healthy harvest free from frost damage or pests.
"We came to assess the condition of the wheat, and it looks very good. It is covered with a 10-15 centimeter layer of snow that protects it from frost. Frost is welcomed to some extent, as it helps eliminate certain pests and bacteria. In previous years, the wheat had a yellowish-green hue, but now it is a vibrant green. We were fortunate to receive good rainfall in the autumn, and now the snow provides excellent protection until spring, allowing us to potentially avoid some treatments, which is beneficial for us farmers," said Vasile Șarban, a farmer from Nicoreni.
The snow acts as a natural insulator, softening the impact of frost and maintaining a consistent soil temperature. Despite this, the snow layer is not uniform across all fields, and the recent strong frosts can damage the plants.
“When we observe this year's wheat crop, at first glance, it seems that the tops are touched by frost. However, the twinning method remains unaffected, and the plants should withstand the current temperatures,” explained farmer Vasile Grădinaru.
Farmers regularly monitor the fields sown with grains and other crops.
“Our enterprise also cultivates rapeseed over an area of 50 hectares. It has entered winter in very good condition, and the snow layer is protecting it from the existing frost, so we hope it will winter well,” emphasized Vasile Șarban.
“The wheat is almost completely covered by snow and is in good condition. Although some local agricultural producers were unable to fulfill their planting plans, we aimed to sow 20,000 hectares of wheat and managed to sow 15,000 hectares,” stated Cristian Grosu, the chief specialist of the Agriculture Service in Drochia.
However, there is no cause for concern, as a good grain harvest was obtained in 2025.
"We achieved a wheat harvest of nine tons per hectare, which is quite rare; it was a very favorable follow-up after planting peas, applying fertilizers twice, and benefiting from a rainy year. This year, with the snow and frost we have, we are hopeful for another very good harvest,” added Vasile Șarban.
Farmers in the Republic of Moldova harvested approximately 1,593,000 tons of wheat in 2025, an increase of about 33% compared to the previous year.
During the period from July to September last year, wheat exports reached approximately 483,400 tons—a record level in recent years and 42% more than in 2024.
