Many often talk about the seventh-year crisis between reality and superstition, but this is not the case. The first hectare of hazelnut groves planted in the land owned by the FIA-Fondazione per l'Istruzione Agraria di Deruta (Perugia) dates back to 2015/16. The grove is made up of Tonda Francescana® hazelnut trees and they brilliantly passed the seventh year milestone.
An average production of around 3 kg per plant was achieved already in 2022. Production will be good this year too, although it is still too early to make an estimate.
Harvesting will start in a few days' time and ripening is looking good. Many local experts believe the aroma will be excellent, although they have not been able to try the fruits yet.
Tonda Francescana boasts medium-late sprouting and blossoming while, unlike other central-southern varieties, ripening is early and never staggered. That is why operations were already planned for the last week of August to be able to bring the produce to the warehouse in one go.
The harvester recently purchased by Fondazione per l'Istruzione Agraria in Perugia will be used on the 50 hectares of hazelnut groves soon. Although plants are very young, production seems good.
Anybody who may be interested in assisting the conclusive moment of the production cycle of Tonda Francescana hazelnuts can get in touch with the foundation to receive details of the event:
+39 075 9731009
[email protected]
