Thanks to the weather in October with temperatures above average, the production of fall strawberries grown by Michieli using the Up&Down system was good. Brix level was high and prices hovered around €3/kg.
"We still have no definitive data when it comes to quantities, but we can say we are satisfied. Most of all, consumers appreciated the quality. Sugar level reached 12-12° Brix on average for most varieties, so the produce did well on the market," explains Sofia Michieli.
The Up&Down system is already in use in countries like the Netherlands, but it is still relatively new in Italy, especially when it comes to strawberries. Plants are grown in soil-less ducts filled with a coir and perlite substrate. This system enables operators to work standing up.
"Plants are still in excellent state with a good number of flowers and small fruits. Harvesting should last for a few weeks, provided that temperatures do not drop. Our produce was sold all over the Triveneto area at good prices."
The greenhouse and cultivation system covers 5500 square meters. "In July, we transplanted five varieties - Vivara, Portola, San Andreas, Cantus and Ania."
Contacts:
Sofia Michieli
via San Cassiano, 112
45030 Crespino (Rovigo)
Email: sofia.michieli@icloud.com