Pistachio cultivation in Spain

As consumers increasingly turn to healthy alternatives and functional foods, the pistachio market continues to experience solid growth, both domestically and internationally.

This dried fruit is very versatile and has enormous properties and nutrients, which is why it is highly appreciated and is currently being demanded by various sectors. In addition to being consumed in its natural form, raw or roasted, pistachio-derived food products are also marketed. It has been incorporated as a key ingredient in gastronomy and is an innovative ingredient in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors.

However, growing this fruit is one of the most demanding plantations. Only in a few places in the world can the pistachio tree thrive. And Spain is among these select areas.

In this post we offer A 360-degree view of pistachio cultivation in SpainWe explain the different reasons why pistachios are attractive and profitable agricultural production in our country, why they are in high demand in various sectors, and what the future outlook is.

Spain as a prominent location for pistachio cultivation

Spain offers privileged conditions for pistachio cultivation.

The success of pistachio cultivation It is determined by factors such as climate, topography, soil, and the agricultural methods or practices employed. For example, the pistachio tree adapts to a wide variety of soils, even growing in poor, stony, and calcareous soils.

However the most important factor is the climate, and this is the main reason why it can only be grown in a few privileged countries on the planet.

Although the pistachio tree has the ability to survive and be productive under adverse climatic environments, it is a tree with warm, dry summers, which withstands winter cold and drought. However, requires certain hours of cold during the winter break and low relative humidity.

For example:

To grow and mature: This tree needs climates with long, very hot and dry summers, in which it grows for more than 3.000 hours.

During your vegetative stop: The pistachio tree needs very cold (not freezing) winters. It must accumulate at least 600 hours of chilling.

Humidity: It can lead to the growth of fungi and hamper harvesting. Therefore, it is very important to have a dry climate.

Spain has ideal climatic conditions for the cultivation and production of high-quality pistachios using organic practices.

Our country has several climatic zones. One of the most marked is the continental climate zone, perfect for the development of pistachio trees and the production of optimal fruit, due to its extreme temperatures, with very hot summers and harsh winters. Furthermore, rainfall is scarce, predominating in autumn and spring.

Of course, certain factors must be considered. For example, it is advisable to grow in areas far from humid coasts, and special attention must be paid to late frosts, which can impair fruit ripening.

Nowadays pistachio cultivation is spread across different regions, mainly in Castilla la Mancha, where approximately 80% of the pistachio plantations are located. Communities such as Andalusia, Extremadura, Aragon, Castile and Leon, Madrid, etc.

Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Preview of data on non-citrus fruit trees and dried fruit trees, 2022).

The profitability of a hectare of pistachio

It is essential to consider that in this type of cultivation the following are obtained: medium and long-term benefitsThe pistachio tree has a long unproductive period, which can vary depending on growing conditions (a period that can be shortened with the use of certain technologies). However, when this tree reaches adulthood, it has a high productive potential, which can extend over 50 years.

This is followed by a long unproductive period, between 3,5 and 4,5 years, which can reach its peak production level between the eighth and tenth yearConsequently, the return on investment can occur between years 12 and 14. Everything will depend on the pistachio variety, crop management, weather conditions, etc.

On the other hand, the average production of pistachio in shell in dry land is equal to 1.500 kg/ha, while in irrigated land it is greater than 3.000 kg/ha.

Spain will be the largest European producer of pistachios

Spain, one of the world's leading pistachio producers.

In Spain, the area cultivated with pistachios has a continuous growth rateAccording to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food, pistachio cultivation is one of Spain's fastest-growing plantations, with a total area of over 70.000 hectares.

Although, as this type of plantation is recent, the yields per hectare have yet to reach maximum productivity. 15% of the crop is still in its first year, while the 67% They are young plantations.

Therefore, it is a fact that in the next 6 to 8 years, when our plantations reach their maximum production capacity, We will experience exponential growth in Spanish pistachio production..

Source: Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (Preview of data on non-citrus fruit trees and dried fruit trees, 2022)

In recent years demand has increased of this dried fruit, both in Spain and internationally (especially in Europe).

In order to respond to the domestic market, it has been necessary to increase the importsBecause, although domestic production is also increasing, plantations are not yet in full production and it is not yet possible to fully meet national demand.
In addition, although with few tons, they are being carried out exports of high-quality pistachios to the international market, mainly to European countries.

According to the data of the European Pistachio Council CEPThere are three countries leading this crop in Europe. But only Spain has the climatic and geographic conditions to expand pistachio cultivation, solidify its growth, and lead the production of this nut in the European Community. Therefore, our country will triple its current production by 2028.

Let's look at the following data:

Greece. It has the highest production to date: 8.000 tons on 10.000 hectares. But it has no possibility of expanding its cultivation.

Spain. It has more than 70.000 hectares planted, of which only approximately 10% is in production.

Sicily, Italy. It is the third largest pistachio producer in Europe, with 2.000 tons on 5.000 hectares. However, due to its geographical location, it is also limited in its ability to expand this crop.

Do you need help getting started with pistachio farming?

New markets for pistachio use: gastronomy, cosmetics, healthy eating

Pistachios are increasingly in demand in different sectors.

Pistachio consumption has increased, both nationally and internationally. This is due to the versatility of this dried fruit already the strong global trends on healthy eating and the pursuit of physical well-being.

The pistachio has a unique flavor and color, which is why it is being successfully used in the gastronomyIt's an ingredient that pairs perfectly with ice cream, cakes, and countless savory dishes. It's also a nut that facilitates culinary innovation.
Pistachio contains high amounts of vitamins, amino acids, minerals, antioxidants, phenolic compounds, fiber, etc. Several studies published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information in the United States and the information service of the Spanish Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Food link pistachios to a series of benefits, such as weight and blood sugar control and a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. For this reason, pistachios are in high demand for:
The food industry, for the creation of functional foods (foods that, in addition to their natural contribution of nutrients, provide a specific benefit to the body).
The pharmaceutical industry. For example, for the manufacture of nutraceuticals (alternative pharmaceutical products with significant physiological benefits).
Pistachio is an excellent source of vitamin E and antioxidant compounds, which is why it helps combat the damage caused by free radicals in skin cells. For this reason, several companies in the cosmetics sector are introducing this nut as a key ingredient in skin, hair, and facial care products, such as essential oils, creams, and soaps.

This business opportunity represented by pistachio cultivation is increasingly recognized by entrepreneurs and investors in the sector. Many have decided to become pioneers in the cultivation and marketing of pistachios in Spain, with the vision of competing in the international market in the future.

How to make pistachio farming profitable?

En Agróptimum We become your partner in the pistachio business. We offer a completely personalized 360-degree service and assist you in the comprehensive management of your pistachio cultivation, ensuring maximum return on your investment.

We hold an team of expert agricultural engineers in the evaluation of the conditions of each field and in determining the specific needs for the cultivation of pistachios, almonds, olives, etc., in order to maintain control of each parameter and achieve maximum efficiency in the plantation.

We offer a comprehensive agricultural consulting for each of the tasks that must be performed. For example, we guide you in developing fertilization plans, scheduling irrigation, calculating water supplies, and scheduling the necessary phytosanitary treatments.

We adapt to your needs and are with you every step of the way, from planting to harvest. We provide immediate assistance via phone, instant messaging, or email. Because our main goal is to ensure your plantation's needs are always met, thus increasing production quality and yield.

If you want an innovative, sustainable and profitable crop, contact us. We help you. In Agróptimum We offer you our experience, knowledge and technology.