Years of in-depth trials and the first small-scale test plots have culminated in the launch of Guelph Equinox asparagus at the International Asparagus Days event, October 29 and 30 in Angers, France. 

Guelph Equinox was bred at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada and the seed production is handled by Fox Seeds. Global Plant Genetics (GPG) has exclusive seed distribution rights to the variety in Europe and Russia. It is a key part of a new generation of asparagus hybrids that are taking green asparagus production to improved levels of performance.

“Guelph Equinox offers spear quality and uniformity to standards that are far beyond many existing types,” said Jamie Petchell, Global Plant Genetics. “In addition, the variety is early to harvest and delivers consistently high yields.”

Ken Wall, Fox Seeds continued, “Guelph Equinox is performing in Europe as well as we have seen it in a number of areas across North America and Canada. We’re excited to be working with GPG to allow access for European producers. As well as being part of Fox Seeds, I have personally grown commercial test areas of Guelph Equinox on my own farm and I will be planting more as the seed volumes have increased.”

Seed volumes of Guelph Equinox have been increased and the first commercial volumes will be delivered to asparagus plant nurseries early in spring 2020.

Fox Seeds, incorporated on February 9, 2012, was created from the asparagus seed business that had been developed over the years by the Asparagus Farmers’ of Ontario (formerly the Ontario Asparagus Growers’ Marketing Board). Fox Seeds has the exclusive rights to produce seed from the asparagus hybrids developed by the breeding program at the University of Guelph breeding program. Seed is sold directly to Ontario growers and is marketed through distributors throughout the rest of Canada and internationally. 

Source:  Global Plant Genetics October 29, 2019 news release