Dubrovnik-Neretva County issues mandarin harvest recommendations

The Mandarin Commission of Dubrovnik-Neretva County has issued recommendations regarding the start of the 2026 mandarin harvest. Following physical-chemical analyses conducted by the Institute of Mediterranean Cultures at the University of Dubrovnik, it was determined that only a small portion of the tested samples met the required maturity standards.

Out of 19 samples analyzed from various locations including Jasenka, Bostanac, Glog, Modrič, Vidrice, and Metković, only five samples met the minimum maturity conditions prescribed by market standards for fruit and vegetables. These samples included the Ichimare variety from Glog, Vidrice, and Metković, one Zorica Rana sample from Jasenka, and one Iwasaki sample from Metković.

Furthermore, nine samples met the stricter criteria specifically required for the protected Neretva Mandarin, including varieties of Zorica Rana, Iwasaki, and Ichimare. Because only a limited number of samples reached the necessary maturity levels during the first testing period, the commission has provided specific guidance on the harvest commencement.