Spring and the beginning of summer have been characterised by hailstorms and tornadoes, so protecting crops has become essential. "New orchards must be provided with covers against these phenomenons in addition to protection against cracking and bacteriosis for kiwis," explains Robert Spinazzè from Spinazzè Group.
Covers on an apple orchard.
"Growers no longer ask for traditional quotes for material, they require covering solutions that protect their crops. We are working with partner companies to meet their needs. For kiwis, for example, we are carrying out tests in various areas to see what is the difference between the fruit that grows in Latina and that in Emilia-Romagna. Constant monitoring helps us develop new solutions."
Line covering.
The first results already look promising. "Kiwis grow well under anti-rain nets, as temperatures are lower forming the ideal micro-climate. Of course these structures are quite dangerous because of the wind, which causes a lot of problems. Anyway we are going towards total covers that also work against brown marmorated stink bugs and other dangerous parasites.
For stone fruit, single line systems are being developed which favour both harvesting and the carrying out of treatments. "Another positive aspect is the sunlight quantity/quality ratio. Choosing these nets is therefore a strategic choice, as they must both protect orchards against the weather and guarantee the high quality of the fruit."