Producing valerian in the summer is possible, but it is never an easy choice. High temperatures and light peaks are the main limiting factors for a crop that, by nature, prefers cooler and more stable conditions. Yet it is precisely from the end of winter, when light increases, that interesting production opportunities open up. At this stage, yield and quality can be very high, provided that the transition to summer conditions is managed correctly.
Valerian grows best between 5°C and 20°C, with ideal germination between 15°C and 20°C. While it tolerates short periods of intense cold well, heat above 30°C is the real critical factor, slowing down development and affecting final quality.
© Cristiano Riciputi | HortiDaily.comAlessandro Berardinelli, Andrea and Daniele Maraldi, Fabrizio Abbondanza
Varietal choice: the real strategic factor
"Good agronomic techniques are not enough under stress conditions. Genetics makes the difference. In order to successfully tackle the spring-summer cycle, it is essential to choose varieties that can withstand high temperatures, maintain uniformity and guarantee satisfactory yields even in difficult conditions. It is within this scenario that our range has been developed to offer concrete solutions to growers," explains Andrea Maraldi, CEO of Maraldi Sementi.
EXCEL: earliness and safety
It is a historical variety, appreciated for its reliability: good germination even in warm soils, short cycle that is 3-4 days early, upright habit which limits leaf contact with the soil. It is suitable for those who rely on fast cycles and continuity of production.
© Maraldi Sementi SrlExcel variety
MATISSE: balance and adaptability
It is a versatile variety, able to adapt to different environments. Well-structured rosettes, leaves with a good consistency, medium cycle, balanced production even in the hottest periods. Suitable for those seeking stability without sacrificing quality.
© Maraldi Sementi SrlMatisse variety
GOYA (MSX19011): quality for targeted contexts
This is a slower growing variety, but with distinctive characteristics. More complete plant development, high quality standards, suitable for experienced growers and specific areas. It has given particularly interesting results in Agro Pontino and Southern Italy, where the weather conditions are more favourable than in some areas in the North.
© Maraldi Sementi SrlGoya variety
Research and experimentation: a concrete support
"Intensive research work is at the basis of variety development. Varieties are tested under real conditions, subjected to thermal, light and agronomic stress to assess their behaviour in the field. This approach makes it possible to collect concrete data and offer growers increasingly precise indications, reducing uncertainty even during the most complex parts of the year."
For more information 
Maraldi Sementi
Italy
Fabrizio Abbondanza
+39 389 925 4348
[email protected]
Salerno
Silvano De Martino
+39 393 979 6449
[email protected]
Exports
Alessandro Belardinelli
+39 335 833 0979
[email protected]
