PROEXAG, non-traditional agricultural export support project : asparagus production potential in Costa Rica and Guatemala

This report assesses the potential for developing asparagus as a nontraditional export crop in these countries. The report cites three major constraints on asparagus production as currently practiced in the two countries: (1) poor planning regarding site selection, cultivar selection, and quality of planting material; (2) limited access to technical information; and (3) lack of experience. Particularly discouraging is the widespread use of a certain cultivar, UC 157 F2, which has not often yielded well even under the best of conditions. Some large-scale plantings of this cultivar may need to be abandoned. Recommendations are made regarding planting, harvesting, and postharvest operations.