Italy is one of the top nations in growing grapes, and is well-known for it's wine. Italy also is one of the world's top producers of olives and olive oil. In the 1980's, Italy's grapes, olives, potatoes, tomatoes, corn and rice did particularly well. Other field crops are barley, rye, artichokes, chili peppers, and watermelons. Orchard crops include olives, apples, oranges, figs, dates, and nuts.
Dairy farming is also a major industry.
About 50 kinds of cheese are made, including Gorgonzola, pecorino, and Parmesan. The climate of Italy varies much. However, the average annual temperature ranges from about 11 to 19deg. It is about 13deg. C in the Po Valley, about 18deg.