Overmoistening of the topsoil and high relative humidity this spring damaged the first seedlings of sugar beets, the Ukrsahar press service said.

The planting zone of sugar beets in Ukraine is located within the territory of waterlogged soil. The remaining crops were affected by diseases that affect beet growth, its development and sugar content.

When the soil is waterlogged, it is not possible to carry out any work in the fields. Plant protection products in this case will not have time to affect pests and weeds. Heavy rains lead to leaching of nitrogen from the soil.

As a result, sugar beets grow and develop more slowly. In cold and waterlogged land, young plants may die due to a lack of oxygen, the association explained.

Taking into account all factors, experts predict a decrease in yield and a decrease in sugar content of sugar beets in 2019. This will certainly affect the volume of sugar production in the country. This year it is expected to receive no more than 1.1-1.2 million tons of product, which will create a shortage in the market, experts of the Ukrsakhar Association summed up.