"We have finished transplanting 55 thousand plants of 5 varieties with the Up&Down greenhouse system. The density is 10 plants per square meter and harvesting will begin in early September to end in early November," reports Sofia Michieli.
Strawberries transplanted in early July
The greenhouse and cultivation system for which Sofia was awarded covers 5500 square meters. "We decided to try something new and opted for five varieties: Cantus, Ania, Vivara, Portola and San Andreas."
With regards to the spring harvest, the manager reports that prices have fluctuated as the market wasn't stable. There were moments with low prices at €2/kg and others with better prices at €3/kg.
Sofia Michieli during the spring harvest
"Feedback was positive when we started selling to wholesale markets under our brand Fragole di Sofia. Now clients are waiting for a good production in autumn as well. So far, our produce has been available in the Veneto region but we are looking for outlets in the rest of the peninsula as well. Our philosophy is to focus on quality rather than quantity."
The Up and Down system is no news in countries such as the Netherlands, but it is not as popular in Italy, especially when it comes to strawberries. The fruit is grown in soil-less conduits and the substrate is made of coir and perlite. Conduits are on two levels placed vertically, so operators can work standing straight.
Contacts:
Sofia Michieli
via San Cassiano, 112
45030 Crespino (Rovigo)
Email: sofia.michieli@icloud.com