Truffle Farming: Handbook to understand methods and techniques of truffle cultivation

This book is a complete, rigorous and accessible guide on truffle cultivation, designed for those who want to approach this fascinating agricultural activity in a conscious and structured way. The text is extremely clear, full of detailed explanations, technical references and practical suggestions, designed to accompany the reader step by step, from theory to practice. The volume opens with an introduction to the world of truffles: their history, the most prized species, their gastronomic value and ecological importance. It continues with a scientific but understandable discussion of mycorrhizal symbiosis, the basis of cultivation, illustrating the relationship between truffle and host plant in biological and agronomic terms. Ample space is dedicated to the choice of soil, preparation of the plant and the cultural management of the truffle ground, with particular attention to the different types of soil, exposure, climate, choice of plants (such as oak, hazelnut, holm oak) and the techniques for planting mycorrhizal seedlings. The text precisely addresses the maintenance of the truffle ground over the years, including weed control practices, irrigation, pruning, fertilization and monitoring of the development of mycorrhizae. There is no shortage of insights into diseases, truffle enemies, harvesting techniques (with the help of a trained dog), seasonality and the correct conservation of the harvested product. An important section is dedicated to economic, regulatory and bureaucratic aspects, offering the reader useful tools to understand the profitability prospects of the activity, the current legislation on the matter and the procedures for registering and marketing the product. The author also pays attention to environmental sustainability, promoting cultivation practices that respect biodiversity and have a low ecological impact. The writing is accurate, technical but always clear, designed to satisfy both the curious and passionate reader and the farmer or entrepreneur who wants to integrate this valuable crop into their business. Despite the absence of illustrations, the logical organization of the contents and the clarity of the exposition make the book an authoritative and effective tool.