Sardinian agronomist Orazio Casalino talks about the phenological state of citrus plants and fruits. "The situation in Sardinia reflects what is happening on a national level. The heat and drought in March and April followed by the frequent heavy rains in April and May and the strong Sirocco winds in early June let do many drops."
"Therefore, quantities in the three main production hubs - Muvera, Oristano and Villacidro - are expected to drop considerably. The damage is evident for clementines in particular, as oranges blossom in a different period and are less sensitive."
"With the help of technicians and producers, we are working so that fewer quantities can turn into a higher quality in terms of grades, flavor and appearance. The hot temperature of the past few weeks is affecting crops, as drops are continuing while they should have stopped in late June.".
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FreshPlaza interviewed three entrepreneurs from three different areas:
Oristano. Producer Antonio Puggioni explains that "the situation is critical as many producers are reporting similar problems. Drops have reached 60%. The strong Sirocco wind blowing at 30-40 km/h caused further problems. It is very hot this summer and lowering the temperature by 6-7°C using micro-irrigation could help."
Villacidro. Agronomist Giovanni Ignazio Muscas, member of the Associazione Agricoltori Villacidresi Board of Directors, reports that "all our partners are facing the same difficulties and some are even reporting no fruits whatsoever. Only 30% of the production is estimated to be available for the next campaign. Orange and clementine groves cover around 500 hectares in our area, but the damage is considerable on all clementine clones."
Muvera. Emmanuel Cattoir says that he owns "around 10 hectares, but I can confirm that the drop in production is of at least 60% especially when it comes to clementines."