The first harvest of greenhouse cherries began on 16 April 2025, later than planned, due to the less-than-spring-like weather of the past few weeks.
"We had expected to start the harvest in the first days of April, but the recent cold waves, with frequent rains, high humidity, and therefore little sunshine in the last 15-20 days, have contributed to slowing down the growth and ripening of the fruit. In fact, we are seeing a delay of more than a week compared to the previous season," says an agronomist from the Agromnia consulting firm and owner of the Naturaviva agricultural company, with farms in Bisceglie (in the province of Barletta-Andria-Trani, in the region of Apulia).
The start of the harvest just before Easter places the fruit in an even better position on the markets, helping to boost the initial quotations. "When you see the first cherries on the market, it feels like spring has finally arrived. It is important to be present on the shelves with an exclusive product, especially during the Easter holidays and other Italian celebrations typical of this period, which can bring good economic results."
However, the entrepreneur estimates that the harvest of cherries under cover will be completed by the end of the month. "We are talking about three hectares. The quantities are small at the moment, but they will gradually increase starting next week. We will be in the field every other day to select the fruit with the ideal ripeness. According to the first tests carried out, the sugar content is also good, as well as the homogeneous color of the fruit on the tree, with an average size of 28 mm."
The product is supplied to the O.P. Agritalia and is marketed exclusively by Giuliano Puglia Fruit.
For more information:
Naturaviva Soc. Coop.
Via Puccini, 4
76011 - Bisceglie (BAT)
+39 335 5280240
O.P. Agritalia Soc. Coop.
Vicinale Maranco, 51
76121 Barletta (BAT) - Italy
+39 0883 510888
+39 380 800 2222
[email protected]
opagritalia.it