Then the fruit from Eastern Europe became available, and similar plums arrived on the German market at lower prices. This, combined with the fact that apple and wine-grape cultivation was becoming more popular in the region, led to the decline of this variety.
Dro plums.
Nowadays, only 14 hectares are dedicated to these plums, 8 of which are part of the PDO territory. They are cultivated by cooperativa Valli del Sarca. Volumes have been at 180 tons for the past couple of years, a little below the potential 250 tons. This year, the slight drop in volumes was due to the cold temperatures during blossoming.
Andrea Valerio, sales and R&D director at La Trentina.
"We have developed new projects to promote the variety on the Italian market. Quality is excellent - sugar levels are high with 15° Brix and it has a good sweet/acidic balance. Firmness is good and fruits weigh between 20 and 30 grams. But, most of all, it is rich in pruina and polyphenol," explains Andrea Valerio, sales and R&D director at La Trentina.
Dro plums.
"The objective is to reach a production of 400-500 tons a year. It is a great opportunity for producers, as it can integrate their income. In addition, as it does not need a lot of treatments, it is very sustainable and adapts well to territories located near towns."