Italy: Tristeza virus could be opportunity to renovate citrus groves in Sicily

As part of its special in-depth analysis of the Citrus Tristeza Virus (CTV), Sebastiano Cosentino, from the company with the same name located in Lentini (Sicily), comments on the problem.

"It is us who carry out re-plants in those citrus groves that might be affected by the virus, using the "interrow" method."

"I hope that the disease is an opportunity to update the Sicilian citrus assortment thanks to the introduction of new varieties according to the demand coming from the market."

For this reason, Sebastiano Cosentino feels the need for a continuous collaboration with the research sector "in order to prevent producers from acting without any coordination or indication, which would have negative consequences because of the lack of scheduling, overlaps or investments in unsuitable varieties."

The renovation effort must be supported: "We need to reduce bureaucracy so we can access funds easier in order to make the defeat of the virus economically viable. Funds must be allocated favouring the introduction of certified virus-free plants and taking into consideration the fact that, in the following 5-6 years, the companies that renovate the plants could be left without an income while they wait for plants to start producing."

"We confide in the new Agricultural Councillor for Sicily, as we hope he will look for quick solutions. In the meantime, farmers cannot sit and wait."

Contacts:
COSENTINO SEBASTIANO & FIGLIO s.n.c.
Via Riccardo Da Lentini, 129
96016 Lentini (SR)
Tel.: (+39) 095 901686
Fax: (+39) 095 902888
Email: azienda.cosentino@tin.it