Argentina: Asparagus seeks to return to its golden age in the Colorado River Valley

Known as a rustic crop, but with a growing demand in the domestic market, asparagus advances in the Buenos Aires Valley of the Colorado River, although it is not the only production area in the country. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) belongs to the Asparagaceae family. It is a plant that resists droughts, and develops in a warm climate, but without excessive heat, requiring a period of rest induced by low temperatures. However, it does not tolerate frost. In Argentina, eight provinces make up the national supply calendar, standing out in San Juan, Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Santa Fe, Corrientes, Catamarca, Mendoza, and San Luis. “In the 80s, the Villarino Party had producers who grew Asparagus, but the advance of the onion caused its production to drop considerably. In fact, local people used to collect them on the banks of irrigation canals and wire fences”, said INTA extensionist Hilario Ascasubi, Andrea Mairosser. The specialist, together with her work team, has been evaluating ...