The changing climate hits once again as, in early November, local courgettes are still available in Bologna between Sicilian and Fondi produce.
"There shouldn't be any, or at least only small quantities should be available," explains a wholesaler. He blames this prolonged local season on the high autumn temperatures.
Local dark-coloured courgette prices hover between €1 an d€1.50/kg depending on grade and quality, while those from Fondi sell at €1-1.60/kg and those from Sicily sell at €0.70-1.20/kg. Prices of light-coloured courgettes are €1.50-2.50/kg for local productions and €1.50/kg for those coming from Sicily.
The Bologna wholesale market. (Archive photo)
The temperature and the weather could be the reason behind this courgette season. "The local season went very well, as prices were 30-40 eurocent/kg higher than in the past."
But the weather is also affecting production in central and southern Italy. "Courgettes from Fondi practically weren't available last week and volumes have become available all of a sudden this week."
Courgette production is in fact affected by temperatures, more than other vegetables - the higher the temperature, the more abundant and concentrated production is. The problems are, though, that plants are more exposed to disease and reach the end of their life cycle earlier this way.
"In addition, this type of production may lead to gaps in supply. There may also be quality and shelf-life problems."
