Modigliani is a rather unique producer, as he does not "push" his strawberries, peaches, apricots or pears. He does harvest lower volumes, but quality is better and buyers (retailers, wholesale markets, direct clients) are willing to pay more for his high-quality fruit.
"As regards strawberries, this is the third year of continuous crop without sterilisation for this greenhouse, yet you can see how vigorous and well-developed the plants are. I believe a lot of it depends on the rusticity of the Pircinque variety, which is proving tolerant even with continuous cropping without sterilisation. I prefer planting on single rows and keep a 25 cm distance between rows. This way, the risk of fungal diseases is lower."
Lower yields, but a better quality with higher GSP. Modigliani sells his strawberries at around €4/kg. "Second-quality produce also sells well, because organoleptic properties are excellent even though appearance is not. I set them aside and consumers can choose which they prefer. I often see first-quality strawberries with a few second-quality ones in the middle and I don't think it's fair."
Harvesting is carried out between April and June. "Of course, without 'pushing' plants, it is more difficult to organise all the various tasks to be carried out, but the final result is much better."
For further information
Modigliani Frutta
Via Vetreto 264
Cesenatico (FC)
Tel: 0547/311002
Sito: www.modiglianifrutta.it