The Valleri commercial farm located in Cavallino Treporti (Veneto) produces, processes and packages herbs, fresh-cut salad, fresh and steamed vegetables and jams. Starting this year, it has also started growing different varieties of pumpkins.
"Pumpkins, which are cultivated from May until the end of Autumn, grow exceptionally well in these salty areas, which also give them a special flavour. They are cultivated on open fields, with support structures for climbing varieties or underneath structures that protect them from the sun during Summer," explains owner Stefano Valleri.
Giant pumpkins under a shading structure.
"Among the varieties we chose to produce there is the sea pumpkin, which is ideal to be cooked in the oven or to make gnocchi or risotto. We start harvesting it mid-August and go on throughout Autumn," says Stefano.
Sea pumpkins weigh between 3 and 15 kg, with an average of 8-10 kg.
Sea pumpkins weigh between 3 and 15 kg, with an average of 8-10 kg.
Next week, washed and sliced sea pumpkins (see photo below) will be available among the "Products of Cavallino Treporti's Tourist Park".
"We pack sliced pumpkins in 500 gram trays or as our clients prefer. This type of pumpkin is sold with the skin on as removing the skin only after it is cooked enables waste reduction. In addition, the skin provides some support while cooking in the oven and also means that the pulp is tastier," explains Stefano Valleri.
Calabash squash, it can be eaten or used as decoration.
Different types and sizes of decorative pumpkins.
Different types and sizes of decorative pumpkins.
Different types and sizes of decorative pumpkins.
"I have decided to diversify our production because consumers, especially the little ones, are getting more and more interested in pumpkins. In addition, they are a good solution to address crop rotation and they represent an alternative to traditional products."
"We destine our harvest to retailing and, partly, to on-farm sale. I may organise some sort of guided tour for kids next year, as they are curious about this product, especially giant pumpkins."
Loofah pumpkins (in the photos above and below) are a different matter, as they are peeled, washed, the seeds are removed and they are sundried. "It is a real vegetable sponge which can be used in cosmetics, as a scrub and in the kitchen to clean nonstick pans without scratching them," concludes Stefano Valleri.
Contacts:
Az. Agricola Valleri
Via del Vallone, 5
30010 Cavallino Treporti (VE)
Tel.: (+39) 041 5309581
Fax: (+39) 041 966812
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.gliaromi.com
