The cherry harvest began a few days ago in Cesena's hills, starting with the earliest varieties. According to price lists published by the Bologna market organization, wholesale prices range from €5 to €10 per kilogram, depending on the fruit's size and quality.
Loris Babbini of the Le Bagnare farm in Cesena assesses the situation: "We began harvesting a few days ago, and the results are encouraging. The quantity and caliber are both satisfactory, with sizes ranging from 26+ and up. The fruit must undergo a meticulous examination to ensure its firmness and freshness. Once this is finished, the gross saleable production is ample for the period."
Loris Babbini
The two varieties that Babbini currently produces in the Carpineta hills of Cesena, in Emilia Romagna, are Early Bigi and Morena. He is also a member of Aproccc, the Association of Cherry Producers of the Cesena Hills.
"If cherries are produced to be a good size and flavor, they can generate income despite the high production costs. However, cherries are also becoming a luxury fruit for high-income families. Supermarkets sell the same cherries that producers sell for 5 euros per kilogram in 300-gram baskets for 4.90 euros per kilogram, or 15 euros per kilogram. And we're not talking about the highest grades, but the average ones. The gap between the price paid to producers and the selling price is far too wide."
Babbini cultivates five hectares of cherry trees, making him one of the most important producers in his area. "To obtain a good size, you need careful fertilization management together with a well-thought-out defense plan. With fewer authorized active ingredients, a more integrated approach is needed," the entrepreneur concludes.
For more information:
Loris Babbini
Az. Agricola Le Bagnare
Via Madonna dell'Olivo, 5610
47521 Cesena (FC) - Italy