It's rather difficult to assess the fennel situation. Production in December 2017 and January 2018 was good, but now temperatures are almost spring-like in production areas in southern Italy.
"Currently, fennel is the only vegetable doing well, especially if we consider consumption levels. There is still some produce from Foggia, even though stocks should have ended a while ago. Good-quality fennel continues to be harvested in the Zapponeta area. Harvesting started one month late in Calabria and is proceeding in Metaponto," reported an operator.
"The lack of rain some areas are experiencing may lead to an early ageing of the plants, affecting grade and colour."
Plants are healthy, so it shouldn't be a problem if it starts to rain. However, if things will continue like this, quality will be affected and the produce will need to be sorted.
Prices remained similar to those before the festivities. Average quotations are good at around €0.70-0.90/kg. "High-quality produce does well, while the market finds it difficult to absorb fennel of a lower quality."
Prices remained similar to those before the festivities. Average quotations are good at around €0.70-0.90/kg. "High-quality produce does well, while the market finds it difficult to absorb fennel of a lower quality."