Heat stress and sunburn in agriculture

Protect crops effectively with Vitisol and strengthen them from within with Rappid-K

Temperatures exceeding 30 °C pose major challenges not only for people but also for grapevines, fruit crops, vegetables and arable crops. Heat stress and intense sunlight can lead to sunburn damage, a loss of quality and lower yields.  


What are the consequences of too much heat and sun?

At high temperatures, plants reduce their metabolic activity in order to conserve water. At the same time, the risk of damage to leaves, fruit and berries increases; crops are particularly sensitive to high levels of solar radiation during fruit development. The situation becomes particularly critical when high temperatures coincide with intense solar radiation and drought. In such situations, the following may occur: ​

  • Sunburn damage to fruit and berries ​
  • Leaf and fruit temperatures rise sharply
  • Fruit quality and shelf life decline
  • Growth and yield may be affected

In viticulture, the consequences are often sunburn on the grapes and a reduction in the quality of the harvest. In fruit growing, fruit skins can be damaged, whilst in vegetable and arable farming, stunted growth and yield losses occur. All these factors also lead to significant losses in turnover at the end of the season.​ 


Vitisol: Natural protection against heat and sunburn

To provide the best possible protection for your crops, we recommend using Vitisol. This natural biostimulant, based on clinoptilolite zeolite, forms a fine protective layer on leaves and fruit. This can reduce the surface temperature by up to 5°C and reflect harmful UV radiation, whilst ensuring that sufficient light remains available for photosynthesis. 

The benefits at a glance:

  • Reduces heat stress
  • Protects against sunburn
  • Supports water management 
  • Ensures fruit quality and yield​

To the product

Heat is often followed by the next extreme

However, as temperatures rise, so too does the likelihood of thunderstorms, heavy rain and hailstorms. Such extreme weather conditions place an additional strain on plants and can cause considerable damage. 

Rappid-K supports rapid recovery

For these situations, we recommend Rappid-K, which provides readily available phosphorus and potassium and helps plants to recover quickly following stressful events such as hail, heat, drought or heavy rain. Rappid-K rapidly supplies crops with energy for vital metabolic processes and helps to maintain growth, vitality and yield potential.

Our recommendation

Use Vitisol as a preventative measure ahead of the heatwave

Apply Rappid-K following stressful events or to crops showing visible signs of stress

Now available as a two-pack at a special price!

Order now!


Extreme weather events are on the rise. By protecting your crops in advance and providing targeted support following periods of stress, you can significantly reduce losses in yield and quality. With Vitisol for prevention and Rappid-K for regeneration, your vines will be optimally prepared for the challenges of summer.


Share this post
Our blogs
Drought stress in the fields: Why crops need an energy boost right now and how Rappid-K helps