The high temperatures recorded in recent weeks have increased the demand for refreshing fruits such as melon and watermelon. However, those who wish to consume products from Castilla-La Mancha must wait until mid-July, stated José Ángel Serrano, president of the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) Melon de La Mancha.
The exact start date of the harvest will depend on the weather conditions, although it is estimated that it will be around July 20. The recent hail has affected several plots in municipalities such as Alcázar de San Juan, Tomelloso, Arenales de San Gregorio, and Valdepeñas, with considerable damage to some crops, Serrano stated. The impact assessment will be carried out at a later date.
Supermarkets and greengrocer shops are currently marketing fruit from Almeria, and they will soon market fruit from Murcia. The sector feared that the rains in the south would coincide with the harvest in Castilla-La Mancha, but this won't be the case.
The PGI Melon de La Mancha expects an increase in consumption driven by the extreme heat recorded in May and June, with temperatures close to 40 degrees. Heat and consumption go hand in hand, according to the PGI.
Currently, prices are high as supply is scarce. However, prices are expected to fall as more fruit arrives on the market. It's still too early to make forecasts, Serrano stated.
Source: latribunadeciudadreal.es
