In the south of Italy some areas are expected to have 60% less apricot production, especially of the early varieties.
"In Calabria and part of Basilicata climate changes have heavily influenced this campaign. Because of an initial slowdown in flowering and the recent bad weather, there is a delay of at least 10 days in the harvest of early cultivars. There is a lack of flowering and fruit set in those plants which require more care during the cold. Some Calabrian areas have been hit by frosts and temperatures have dropped to -2.7°C. We are talking about more than 60% damaged production". So said Natalino Gallo, chairman of Op Agricor, owner of the Gallo commercial brand.
According to Gallo, the situation in the orchards is quite uneven: there are cultivars which at the moment show a normal phenological phase, in particular those of medium period and harvested around 10-15 June. Others (early and late), however, are suffering and will give very little product.
"In January, temperatures of up to 27°C were recorded, while now, in April, there are 12°C. For example, a strange phenomenon that has become evident in the orchards is the presence on the same plant of two phenological phases at the same time. Half of the tree is in bloom, the other half already has fruits", explains the chairman.
Finally, looking at the marketing campaign for apricots, there are two important facts according to Gallo: "The first is that there will be less product. The second is the increase in production and processing costs. Unfortunately, the market remains uncertain."
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