Drought is making itself felt in northern Italy and also in the Bologna area, which specializes in the cultivation of onions and potatoes. Many onion producers are irrigating what they sowed in September. Harvesting is expected for late May.
"I cannot recall a similar year - we have had to start with emergency irrigation already in early March. I believe it happened only once before over the past 20 years. This was due to the high temperatures and lack of rain," explains producer Alberto Zambon.
Being forced to irrigate in late February/early March means increased costs when it comes to both energy (electricity or diesel) and water.
"The past season saw incredible prices for high-quality onions, but I would prefer a steadier situation to going from seasons with 7 eurocents per kg to others with almost €1/kg! It is no good for the chain nor for the sector. This year, golden onions had to be imported from China due to the lack of produce, which is not normal."
Together with its two partners, Zambon grows 30 hectares of onions, 80% of which are destined abroad. His trusted customers manage to promote his good-quality produce and appreciate the product from the Bologna area.
"We are hoping it will start raining over the next 15 days, so that we do not have to start irrigating onions sown in late January as well."