Asparagus production multiplied by 20 in 20 years

Asparagus production has increased from 773 tons in 1991 to 17,000 tons in 2014.

Brandenburg region (around Berlin) this year produced about 17,000 tons of asparagus, 2 000 tons more than in 2013. Climatic conditions were favorable, mild and constant temperatures allowed a season of 90 days (70 days in 2013), the prices were good, according to the association of producers.

The sector is concerned, however, by the minimum wage that should be applied from 2015. For the first time, the seasonal workers from Poland or Romania could receive a minimum wage of 8.50 euros. Industry fears a rise in prices and a decline in local production, as well as competition from Polish production that will lower costs.

The state of Brandenburg is the third region in Germany with 2,900 hectares of asparagus behind the North Rhine-Westphalia (Nordrhein-Westfalen) with 3,200 hectares, and Lower Saxony (Niedersachsen) with 5,300 hectares.

source : rbb on line de