MONITORING OF ATMOSPHERIC TEMPERATURES IN EMILIA ROMAGNA REGION, A NEW APPROACH TO ESTIMATE THE JAÉN INDEX

The Jaén Index is currently considered one of the most indicative methods to determine the ripening stage of olives, nevertheless it can still represent some troubles for olive growers in terms of practical applicability and adaptability in different environments. The present study was performed on ‘Correggiolo’ cultivar, one of the most widely diffused cultivars in the Emilia Romagna region. Atmospheric temperatures were collected during three years in three experimental fields located in three different areas of the region. Data achieved were related to olives ripening trends, expressed with the Jaén Index. The relation between the accumulation of GDD (Growing Degree-Days) and the increase of the Jaén Index was determined through statistical analysis. Utilizing the optimal range of the Jaén Index, it is possible to provide an immediate and non-destructive approach which can be used for different cultivars to supply real-time indications about the ripening phase of the fruit. With the availability of temperature forecasts, before the beginning of the olives ripening period, it is thus possible to plan harvest operations in advance, in order to improve a production of high quality extra virgin olive oils.