"The fruit and vegetable season has picked up in recent weeks after a sluggish and problematic summer due to prolonged heat and drought. Among the crops that have improved significantly are tomatoes and, in the last week, table grapes, which had suffered a downturn, especially in August, after a promising start to the campaign," said Antonio Morreale from Bio Hortus OP, based in Palma di Montechiaro (AG), Sicily.
Italia variety
'"After the high prices at the beginning of the early season," continues Morreale, "we have seen a gradual decline that has continued until the first week of September. Production prices are currently between €0.90 and €1.50 per kilo, depending on the lot, for the Italia and Red Globe varieties. Meanwhile, the first open field peppers will be harvested in the next few days. There is some concern about irrigation problems, as even where artesian well water is available, the gradual lowering of the water table has had a salinising effect on the soil. If the necessary rains do not arrive soon, the phenomenon will worsen, with very serious consequences for the rural economy."
Peppers
"What continues to bring satisfaction, because it draws the attention of large international retailers," says the President of the producers' organization, "is our Add-On BioDiversity certification, which has been added to the existing IFS Food, GlobalGAP, GRASP and SPRING certifications. We are still being rewarded for our foresight in being the first in Italy to obtain this certification. We dedicate part of our land to biodiversity, allowing the free growth of native flora, encouraging the presence of insects and attracting local and migratory fauna. Our business partners, who are particularly sensitive to environmental sustainability issues, are very happy about this."
Antonio Morreale, on the left, receives the award from Salvatore Burrafato, president of the Airport of Palermo
Because of its strong commitment to the environment and biodiversity, OP Bio Hortus is at the centre of numerous socio-cultural activities and has received several awards for its work on sustainable cultivation. Most recently, it was awarded the "Palmaris - Territorial Excellence" prize at the 'II Forum Terra Mia 2024' event held in Palma di Montechiaro.
For more information:
Antonio Morreale
OP Bio Hortus
Contrada Senia Albanazzi Snc 
92020 Palma di Montechiaro (AG)
Tel.: +39 3357621355
Tel.: +39 0922963737
Email: [email protected]
www.biohortusag.com