Vestenanova's experience enabled Idromeccanica Lucchini to gain knowledge it can apply to similar situations in the future.
One of the best characteristics of strawberries is their texture, which denotes high quality. In order to obtain it, crops may be shifted to land at a high altitude that guarantees a considerable change in temperature between night and day. Vestenanova, in the Verona province and at the foothills of the Lessini mountains, provides the perfect climate for this type of crop, extending harvesting to mid-October. Idromeccanica Lucchini intervened with its experience and technologies to improve production and solve the many problems that affect strawberry producers.
The problems
In order to obtain the best quality, it is necessary to tackle cultivation problems. Over the past few years, Drosophila suzukii has become the crop's worst enemy. The insect feeds on the sugar part of the plants, leading to a loss in texture. What is more, sunlight must be managed well at high altitudes as it may damage the fruits while, at the same time, using heavy covers might hinder oxygenation.
Idromeccanica Lucchini's solutions
Idromeccanica Lucchini's has always studied the most suitable solutions for each client and situation. The approach is both traditional and innovative and all solutions are discussed with clients. What is more, the study of new materials and the cooperation with Universities enable Idromeccanica Lucchini to keep up to date with the latest innovations.
As for Vestenanova, different types of greenhouses (Oriente TS, Multihortus and Atlantic CS) were used on the entire flat part.
Strawberries are grown using the soilless cultivating technique, which requires fertigation to obtain the best quality and maximum production. This solution does not waste water, as fertigation is calculated on the needs of each specific crop.
Different types of films were used to solve the problem of excessive sunlight - both diffused light and TUV ones that filter only certain light radiations. The combination of these technologies helped achieve the right quantity of sunlight and, mostly, the right quality and wavelength for an optimal fruit development. 35% shading nets were used on the outside.
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To counter the presence of harmful insects, and of Drosophila suzukii in particular, anti-insect nets calibrated for the specific size of Drosophila flies were developed.
Respect for the environment
Idromeccanica Lucchini operated with the maximum respect for the environment. "Greenhouses were installed without a cement base, taking advantage of the natural flat terracing. What is more, the top can be opened by hand, so as to save energy and operate swiftly. Last but not least, gutters have been installed to collect rainwater."
Contacts:
Idromeccanica Lucchini S.p.a.
Via Cavriana 4B
46040 Guidizzolo (MN)
Tel.: (+39) 0376 818433
Fax: (+39) 0376 819498
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.lucchiniidromeccanica.it