There is a buzz in the Apulian citrus groves, despite the difficulties faced by local farmers due to the bizarre weather of the recent months. Harvesting operations of early clementines Orange Rubis and Orogros should start around October 15th-20th.
"It has been a complicated summer for the trees and the fruits, as prohibitive temperature peaks and the lack of water have generated considerable damage, which translated into lower volumes and aesthetic defects. The recent rain and the drop in temperature are a godsend, especially for clementines, as in some groves there is a complete absence of fruits. Some managed to save the tree structures with difficulty. Those who could not get water from artesian wells were the worse off, as the reclamation consortium could not guarantee supply to all the farms. There is a drop especially for oranges, estimated at over 30% for all varieties," reports Apulian businessman Floriano Convertino, owner of Convif in Massafra (Taranto), an agricultural company that grows and sells citrus fruits on the Italian and European markets.
Fruitless plants
There is, however, great excitement especially for common clementines. Contracts with producers were signed several days ago. "Intermediaries and traders are looking for quality citrus fruits that have suitable sizes. Starting prices benefit from the low supply and, at the moment, they are undoubtedly higher than in the same period of 2023, also due to the higher production costs caused by water management - with frequent use of electricity or diesel for irrigation - and nutrition, due to the higher intake of fundamental elements to limit plant stress.
For more information:
Convif Farm
74016 Massafra (TA)
+39 330 880 689
+39 099 5936037
[email protected]