"Compared to last season, we are about 30 days behind schedule. At the moment, the tubers are still completing their ripening and swelling phase, but we believe we can start harvesting the first tubers by the end of October and continue placing them on the market until well into December,” said Francesco Gervasi of Patazù.
Sweet potato cultivation
The company grows sweet potatoes in Salento, southern Italy, which is much appreciated by consumers because it is rich in antioxidant properties, fibre, potassium, protein, iron, calcium and vitamins.
"Given last year's unexpected success, we would have liked to double the quantities, but weather conditions prevented us from doing so. We had a very hot summer, with temperatures in the field reaching 45°C at times during the season, which damaged many plants and severely limited the availability of qualified transplanting staff. Mechanization is the challenge that awaits us next year, along with the establishment of a network of companies, which will be committed to growing Patazù potatoes according to our strict protocol, adopting the best agricultural practices and avoiding the use of synthetic chemicals."
"From the first samples taken in recent days, the tubers have so far
reached 800 grams. However, the sizes vary from 200 grams to 1.5 kg, although this year, due to the weather, we may have some difficulty finding sizes over 1.3 kg.
In addition to the e-commerce, Patazù's sales channels include a number of retailers who prefer selected, high-quality typical products. "This is our second year of marketing, following the launch of the brand in October 2020. The mission is to increase brand awareness over the next two years, especially in the markets of northern Italy and Europe, so that we can sign contracts with the various distribution chains and plan in advance the transplants and therefore the areas to be cultivated. We want to increase the value and relaunch a local variety of sweet potato that was on the verge of extinction, avoiding creating production surpluses and subsequent commercial crises."
"Given the short harvesting and sales period, we have decided to expand the selection with some sweet potato-based products, such as spicy cream, jam and beer. These new products are currently available on e-commerce platforms and in some specialized shops, but we are also establishing interesting relationships with several Italian operators.
For more information:
Tenute Gervasi – Agricoltura Naturale
S.P. Melendugno-Borgagne Km 1,50
73026 Melendugno (LE)
+39 0832 1827644
ordini@patatazuccherina.it
patatazuccherina.it