Marisol is a strawberry variety suitable for cultivation in southern Italy. "We've been talking to FreshPlaza for a few years to promote the quality and opportunities presented by this variety. Those who trusted us are happy to have done so," explain Mario and Marco Magnani from Mia Sas, Italian agent for Viveros California S.L., exclusive holder of Marisol rights.
Viveros California manager with the Magnani's visiting a Marisol field
"During week 15, together with breeders and Viveros California managers, we contacted various producers and traders and the feedback has been positive. We would like to share some of the comments."
Producer Natale Giampà and his collaborator Francesco Polito confirmed that both quality and quantities were excellent during week 12, with good prices.
The Giampà company
Producer Gaetano Ferrara from Policoro was asked why he increases the land destined to the production of Marisol strawberries year after year. He replied that "I cannot afford to change the soil year after year and Marisol is perfect, as it means I can save money on the crop and fertilisation while maintaining excellent quantities and quality. I used the same crop for three years in a row and was not disappointed."
Gaetano Ferrara in his three-year-old crop
F.lli Santarcangelo explained that they chose this variety because "it's rustic and doesn't need to be forced with fertilisers or hormones. The fruit is excellent with a Brix level higher than other varieties and excellent flavour and aroma."
Exporter Antonio Ferrara, partner of FE.VI Frutta, confirms that "the market is increasingly interested in Marisol. Sales centres are starting to distinguish it from the rest thanks to its quality and shelf-life. Next year, I'll start sending punnets and crates with the 'Marisol' brand, as the variety needs to be identified and appreciated for its quality." F.lli Ceccarelli has already been commercialising Marisol-branded punnets for years (photo above).
"Il Frutteto" director Patrizio Neri (in the photo), also confirms the excellent properties of the Marisol variety and feels it should be sold on the market with its own high-quality range.
Cugini Croitoru reports that "Marisol has become a typical product of our area, so much so that prices are higher than those of the best produce in the whole Lazio. The cultivar is perfect for our environment so, considering the increasing demand, we will add crops this year."
"This trend, combined with the good feedback, leads us to believe Marisol crops will increase all over Italy in 2018," concluded Magnani.
Contacts:
For Calabria
Francesco Polito
Tel.: 349 230 6754
For Metaponto
Leonardo Scarnato
Tel.: 337 246 707
Francesco Affuso
Tel.: 345 692 2515
Rocco Marzo:
Tel.: 338 722 6740
For Campania
Ronca Gennaro:
Tel.: 335 832 5965
For central and northern Italy + islands
Marco Magnani
Tel.: 335 825 0118
Email: marcomiasas@gmail.com
Mario Magnani
Tel.: 335 561 4410