Asparagus covered in film makes harvesting easier to maintain the white spears and reduces herbicide requirements, according to Germany’s largest association of asparagus growers.

Simon Schumacher of the Association of Southern German asparagus and strawberry farmers (VSSE) emphasized that it is with good reason that about 90 per cent of the asparagus acreage in Germany is covered with film. 

Because of the film, no harmful substances can be transferred to the vegetable crop, after which it can be removed from the fields without leaving any residues. The film is then completely recycled. Schumacher concludes that this cultivation method is more environmentally friendly than importing foreign asparagus.

The VSSE has more than 600 members, making it Germany’s largest association for asparagus and strawberry growers.

Source: Hortidaily.com March 6, 2019 web posting