Adelpho Frutas, located in Valinhos, São Paulo, has shifted its production approach by embracing precision irrigation and fertigation techniques. Initially apprehensive about the costs, the company, with the aid of Netafim and Bolsa Irriga, implemented a system promising water security and consistent harvests for figs, guavas, and other fruits. Covering 20 hectares with 24,000 plants, the first irrigated area exceeded set expectations concerning production volume and product quality.
The technology accommodates market demands for out-of-season, high-quality fruits, while offering better production cost management. Monitoring tools ensure that irrigation occurs only when necessary, optimizing resources in various terrains. Luís Carlos Christofoli, co-owner of Adelpho Frutas, notes, "We didn't have irrigation when the fruit really needed it. We always thought it was too expensive, too much money, and that it wouldn't pay off. Bolsa Irriga introduced us to a Netafim project, which was very affordable at the time, and we decided to invest. Today, we see how good this is for the crops, especially for costs, production, and fruit quality."
The central reservoir, replenished by wells, maintains the necessary water volume for the entire system. This method has yielded advantages not only in productivity but also in sustainability, contributing to water savings and consistent plant growth. Christofoli explains, "In terms of size, use, and water savings, we say: it's drip irrigation. What are the benefits of fertigation and drip irrigation today? There was no shortage of water, the fruit developed, the tree developed, and today we have this wonderful result, which is the size of the fig and its classification that we achieved."
Source: Abrafrutas