In the foothills of Langhirano, in the agricultural heart of the province of Parma, 'Fattoria Cotti - La Torre' has chosen to combine organic farming and technological innovation. The company, led by entrepreneur Luca Cotti, cultivates 10 certified organic hectares dedicated to basil, processing tomatoes, chilli peppers and pumpkins, following rotation and agronomic practices oriented towards sustainability.
© Cristiano Riciputi | HortiDaily.com
Cotti recounts the introduction, about a year ago, of an ozone generator integrated directly into the farm's well irrigation system. A solution recommended by other farmers and that convinced the entrepreneur right from the start. "I liked the idea immediately," explains Cotti, "and the results have been significant right from the get-go."
Basil is the crop on which the effect of ozonated water has most clearly manifested: irrigation by sprinkling favours a sanitising action, allowing the company to avoid phytosanitary interventions during the first two cuts of the season, from May to August. "For us, it is almost equivalent to a natural treatment and has ensured both good quality and quantities."
© Ecofarm Storti Srl
On drip-irrigated crops, such as tomatoes and chilli peppers, ozone has instead shown effects mainly on the root system, increasing plant vigour and development. This is particularly relevant in organically-managed soils, where vegetative development is not always optimal.
From an operational point of view, the adoption of the technology did not entail any changes in the irrigation infrastructure: sprinkler bars and hoses remained the same. "Once the generator is installed, it is left connected to the well at all times, with no additional costs or technical complications."
The ozone system treats the irrigation water with a process of sanitisation and oxygen enrichment, extracting all the excess ozone that therefore does not reach the crop.
After two years, the entrepreneur confirms not only a significant reduction in phytosanitary problems on basil in the hot months, but also the potential of ozone for traditional crops, where the molecules available for treatment are increasingly limited.
For Luca Cotti, ozone represents a simple, effective and affordable technology. "I am already recommending it because it offers concrete advantages and an investment that is easily recouped over the years."
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