This variety comes in two types: "castellammare" and "campagnano". The former is very early and starts producing in January, while the latter becomes available in March if temperatures are consistent with the seasonal average.
Renowned all over Italy and demanded all over the world, the production area has been recognised with the PGI mark since 2002.
"From a commercial point of view, the mark was an occasion to relaunch the product, which has unique characteristics typical of the area where it is cultivated," explains owner Daniele Mari.
Daniele runs a family business. His father Fabrizio has been growing artichokes for over 30 years, using traditional sustainable methods that respect the environment.
The specification establishes the PGI Roman artichokes must be cultivated without using growth regulators. Sowing is carried out around mid-August and harvesting is carried out between mid-March and early May.
"Working in agriculture is very hard and takes great passion and dedication. You need to wake up early every morning and put great care into artichoke cultivation every day. In addition, the weather is getting increasingly unpredictable. This year, for example, artichokes are ripening almost one month early."
In addition to a unique flavour and health properties, these artichokes have excellent organolpetic qualities, good grades and no thorns. They have very few calories but contain iron, potassium calcium and vitamins.
"We commercialise around 90 thousand artichokes a year through different channels. Most of the produce is destined to wholesale markets, while the rest is sold online or at the company store. Consumers are increasingly opting for a short chain and are often cultivating their own vegetable plots, maybe also because of the economic crisis of the past few years."
"We commercialise around 90 thousand artichokes a year through different channels. Most of the produce is destined to wholesale markets, while the rest is sold online or at the company store. Consumers are increasingly opting for a short chain and are often cultivating their own vegetable plots, maybe also because of the economic crisis of the past few years."
"That's one of the reasons why we chose to sell our plants online too. Our products are available from mid-February to mid-May and the late varieties will take us to early June."
This year, prices are slightly higher than 2016 due to the lower volumes available. "Frost and temperatures below zero stressed the early varieties, so quantities are below average."
"Demand will definitely increase around Easter, up to 50% more, as our customers will stock up to prepare typical local dishes."
Contacts:
Azienda Agricola Mari Daniele
Viale America, snc
00055 Ladispoli (RM)
Cell.: 3201158240
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.carcioforomanesco.com
