Evaluation of agrometeorological parameters for the culture of hops (Humulus lupulus L.) in a protected environment

Abstract

Agrometeorology plays a crucial role in monitoring atmospheric conditions and informing agricultural planning, providing valuable information to farmers and supporting informed decision-making regarding management practices. The objectives of this study were to contribute to the advancement of more sustainable and efficient agricultural methods for the expansion of hop cultivation in Brazil by evaluating agrometeorological parameters in a protected environment. The study aimed to investigate the impact of temperature, relative humidity, and solar radiation on the crop's phenological development and cone production. Analyses were conducted over two growing seasons (2021-2022 and 2022-2023) using the statistical technique of Principal Component Analysis (PCA) to correlate environmental variables with phenological stages. The results indicated higher productivity in the 2021-2022 season, also associated with milder temperatures and lower solar radiation during critical development stages. PCA revealed significant differences between the seasons, highlighting the influence of microclimatic conditions on crop performance. This study underscores the importance of controlling environmental variables in protected cultivation to maximize productivity, ensure quality, and promote the efficient utilization of natural resources.