Harvesting operations are already underway in some cherry orchards in Puglia. It is no longer something new for growers to plan the first operations by mid-April, as they are well aware of the advantages obtained by the innovative cover systems, capable of managing climate change as well as the internal temperature and humidity thanks to the easily-adjustable ventilation corridor.
Covered cherry orchard with a central ventilation corridor
Walter Ruggia, R&D manager at Retilplast, explains that the secret to hastening production by 15-20 days with respect to open field crops lies in knowing when to open and close the central corridor depending on the period and the weather.
The temperature inside the greenhouse must be between 22 and 28°C while the fruit is developing and growing. Some of our clients and friends from Puglia have been reaching the markets early for quite some time now, achieving satisfactory prices even when the year is looking particularly difficult due to the weather. Early productions are achieved by adjusting ventilation and temperature under the cover. The corridor must be closed in February to stimulate the awakening of plants and opened when blossoming starts, favoring the circulation of bees and avoiding humidity. It should then be closed again at the end of flowering to protect the future harvest from temperature drops and unpleasant weather events."
Ripening cherries. Photo taken on April 5, 2024
"Usually the season in the uncovered orchards starts right as we harvest the last covered cherries. Sales prices are very interesting for those who decide to invest in such covers: the last cherries harvested obtain quotations that are double those for the produce in open field, as grades are larger and fruits are appealing with homogeneous color, no cracking, bruises or spots."
Retilplast covers have withstood the recent windy days very well despite the gusts reaching 70 km/h. "They are flexible semi-flat covers: the rigid fixing system is at the top while, at the center of the row, films are secured with elastic rods, meaning the lower part can move slightly in case of strong winds. We believe in the product we sell and install and are extremely pleased with it."
For further information:
Retilplast srl
Industrial estate, exit A3
84022 Campagna (SA) - Italy
(+39) 0828 45359
info@retilplast.it
retilplast.it