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One of the most important aspects in successful truffle farming is choosing the correct site and preparing the land...
Climate
The summer truffle tolerates a broad range of climatic conditions and has been recorded growing all over the UK. The summer truffle is also suited to other global climates, and we have research and data indicating a large number of countries which are suitable for plantations. Many of our Partners assist in our research by providing us with information from data loggers and weather stations on a regular basis.
Soil conditions
The truffle requires quite alkaline conditions with pH values of 7.6-7.9 are ideal and land with a bedrock of limestone or chalk normally have excellent conditions. However, most soils can have their pH raised by agricultural liming. We have worked with several plantations to raise the soil from pH 4.9 to 7.9, using our bespoke Liming Protocols. The truffle tolerates a broad range of other soil conditions, but the site should not be prone to flooding and free-draining soils are generally considered best - although there have been some good reports from clay soils. We also fully analyse trace element levels for a more in depth overview of your land.
Proximity to established trees
Please note, due to research conducted and presented throughout 2007 we have proved that proximity to other trees is not of as great an importance as previously thought for the summer truffle. Whilst it is still good practice to leave a good distance between established trees and the newly planted truffle trees (or a polythene barrier dug-in to a depth of 0.5m) we no longer believe this to be essential, although this is dependent on the sites condition.
Irrigation
Although not essential in countries with high rainfall, ideally the site should be irrigated in dryer zones. This is primarily to ensure that the trees survive their first few years after planting. As part of the Partnership Programme we at Mycorrhizal Systems Ltd will gather all the ground data for you (pH analysis, soils analysis, rainfall data) and advise you.
Weed suppression
Prior to planting the site should be shallow ploughed. After planting, weeds should be suppressed to ensure the health and survival of the saplings.
If you would like to pursue our Partnership Programme further, then please contact us with the size of the plantation you are considering, location of the site and the pH (if known) of your soil, or visit our website : www.plantationsystems.com
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