"The apricot, peach and nectarine season is in full swing at Ecofarm. Harvesting started a little late than in the past, but quality is good," reports Sabina Donzella, quality manager at the Sicilian PO, before adding that "the weather of the past few months has caused a delay in ripening, which then coincided with the maximum development of parasites such as the stink bug, which are proving difficult to contain."
Sabina Donzella
"Through daily monitoring and all the problems it entails, our technicians are trying to help our producers implement defense strategies that comply with integrated control techniques and the specifications of big retail chains. Despite the difficulties caused by the weather, we have managed to obtain a product in line with the sweetness, grade, quality and food safety characteristic required. Which is no mean feat, considering the effects of climate change."
As for peaches and nectarines, considering the livelier demand, Ecofarm as extended its crops over the past few years, focusing on varieties with an excellent flavor and color. This year's late campaign has been rather interesting for the PO, as it was "not affected by the Spanish competition" following various problems. What is more, it looks like there will be no competition from northern Italy as well, as the weather caused various problems to stone fruit growers.
"After the initial high prices in May/June, they stabilized between €0.70 and €0.50/kg with the increase in volumes available. The best grades achieved the better quotations, as did the more appealing ones, which is always the case."
"The weather has changed and, while it is true that agriculture is the first victim and the first sector to perceive its tragic effects, it is also true that we must be ready to work with it. It is therefore necessary if not essential for domestic and international politics to help producers implement integrated control techniques for weeds, driving the sector towards more effective and far-sighted agronomic solutions. This will have to occur in a sustainable manner from an environmental, social and economic point of view."
For further information:
O.P. Eco Farm s.r.l.
Sede Legale: Viale della Regione, 232
93100 Caltanissetta
Stabilimenti: C.da Judeca
93011 Butera (CL)
+39 0934 921558
[email protected]
www.ecofarmitalia.com