Asparagus
Asparagus
Asparagus is one of the few perennial vegetable crops grown in Kentucky. It is a high-value, early producer, that is great for the fresh market and is a good contender for organic production practices. A well-maintained asparagus planting can continue to produce for 15 years and consumption of the veg has increased over the past 10 years.
Key Requirements
| Land | Low |
| Labor | Medium |
| Capital | Low |
Take the HortBizQuiz to see how much Land, Labor, and Capital you have for your operation.
Markets
Pest & Disease
Soil borne pathogens are the most detrimental to asparagus plantings. Make sure the planting location is well drained. A few insects can be detrimental but with proper sanitation and good cultural practices, healthy plants can deal with mild pest pressure
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Challenges
- Asparagus is a poor competitor with weeds so site preparation and maintenance is important.
- Asparagus does not tolerate a wide range of soil pH with ideal soils at 6.6.
- Cannot be harvested in year one, ROI typically by year 3.
Opportunities
- Excellent potential for increased production in KY
- Early production to get the season started
- Not much grown locally for commercial markets