Asparagus from mini tunnels is now being produced everywhere, says grower Franc Goertz from Maria Hoop. "But the season is starting a bit later than in previous years, and supply is relatively limited. Demand for asparagus is enormous from all sides. We're getting calls from customers we've never heard of before."
As a result, asparagus prices are currently high, ranging between 15 and 17 euros per kilo, and Franc expects them to remain stable for now. "There are fewer asparagus on the market than people think. Every restaurant wants asparagus on the menu at this time of year." Goertz Asperges has been growing asparagus on Limburg's sandy soils since 1987. Franc is optimistic about the future of asparagus cultivation. "As a true seasonal product, asparagus continues to enjoy strong consumer demand. Our asparagus goes from consumer to wholesaler—we try to serve all segments, but our preference is to supply retail."
"At the same time, quite a few growers are quitting asparagus production—many small ones, but also some larger players. We haven't expanded our acreage in the past two years either. Expansion is quite a challenge, as you need to find land, staff, and accommodation. Personnel, in particular, has become a major cost factor in recent years. That's why asparagus cultivation is shrinking across Europe year by year. In Germany too, we're seeing many growers exit the sector. But as long as prices stay at this level, we're more than happy to continue on a smaller scale."
Franc Goertz with his family
In addition to growing asparagus, Goertz has specialised in the propagation of asparagus plants for 25 years. "New varieties are introduced every year. But growers and breeders are starting to get a bit weary of them. New varieties often seem promising, but drawbacks frequently arise," says the grower, who focuses entirely on white asparagus. Goertz keeps a close eye on new developments in asparagus cultivation. "For instance, we closely monitor innovations in automatic harvesting systems. However, there is still no ultimate solution in that area."
For more information:
Franc Goertz
Goertz Asperges BV
Veestraat 20
6105 AB Maria Hoop
info@goertzasperges.nl
www.goertzasperges.nl