"Avocado consumption is increasing, not only on a global level, but in Italy as well. A further growth in domestic demand will probably occur when there will be the chance to finally purchase domestic produce. Currently, the producer countries are Mexico, Peru, Israel and Spain. Market prices are definitely interesting and guarantee a fair profit to to producers. Results were good in southern Puglia though, of course, we will need to pay attention as avocados do not do well in cold weather," explains Davide De Lisi, production manager at Masseria Fruttirossi.
"We are almost done planting 40 hectares that will feature five varieties to be harvested between November and May. Pumice is laid down during sowing to favor root transpiration and growth."
"We have also planned anti-frost sprinklers, i.e.systems that spray water mist as soon as the temperature drops to 1-3°C thus preventing frost. Now that plants are still young, sprinkler poles are 2 meters high, then they will be extended when plants reach 4 meters."
"With such systems, water must be supplied continuously for the entire crop, and that is why there is a nearby tank of over 3,000 sq m that will be soon extended to 10,000 sq m. In addition, there will be an automated system that will manage the watering, fertilizing and anti-frost systems."
Below: soil being prepared to install the anti-frost system.
