Strawberry lovers are turning their attention to southern Italy, particularly the region of Basilicata, as the demand for these delectable fruits continues to rise. With the availability of other summer fruits declining, the allure of juicy, vibrant strawberries remains strong.
Despite the strawberry season approaching its end, there is still significant interest in the strawberries from Basilicata. One possible reason for this sustained demand is the scarcity and high prices of other summer fruits, making strawberries a more affordable and desirable choice for consumers.
As the weeks’ progress, the volume of strawberries has halved compared to a week ago, leading to an increase in wholesale prices of around 30% since late April. This trend is not limited to Basilicata alone; other Italian and foreign producer areas are also experiencing reduced yields. Uncharacteristically, the decline in strawberry volumes arrived earlier this season due to abnormal weather conditions in 2023. The mild temperatures during the fall prompted early plant development, resulting in reduced availability towards the end of the season.
Despite these challenges, strawberry harvesting in the lush orchards of Basilicata will continue until mid-June, covering an expansive area of nearly 50 hectares. After a brief spell of unstable weather, the forecast calls for excellent light conditions and sunny days, which will contribute to a homogeneous and swift ripening process. This optimistic outlook ensures that the strawberry campaign in Basilicata will conclude on a positive note, bolstered by the strong reputation of the region’s strawberries, including the renowned Matera® brand. So, strawberry enthusiasts can relish in the anticipation of enjoying these delightful fruits before the season draws to a close.
Source: hortidaily Photo https://www.pexels.com/photo/red-strawberries-fruit-royalty-free-70746/
15 May 2023
