Agriculture - Statistics: Farmers harvest less strawberries and asparagus
One could sense it: Late frosts, heavy rains, and flooding, according to the Statistical State Office, led to decreases in the asparagus and strawberry harvest in Baden-Württemberg. Preliminary figures indicate that only 16,700 metric tons of the popular red fruit could be harvested this year, as statisticians in Fellbach reported. "This is a decrease of approximately 28 percent or 6,400 metric tons compared to the previous year."
The expected decrease in the asparagus harvest compared to the previous year, according to the announcement, is two percent. Approximately 8,800 metric tons were harvested. Asparagus was grown on a area of 1,900 hectares. The asparagus season officially begins in early April and traditionally ends on June 24 (St. John's Day). The strawberry season is still ongoing.
The preliminary data provides initial statements on the asparagus and strawberry harvest in the Southwest. These are preliminary, calculated results. The final numbers are expected to be available in February 2025.
According to the Southern German Asparagus and Strawberry Growers' Association, the harvest losses have not affected prices. The demand for the fruits and vegetables was slightly lower in bad weather. Prices were even below the previous year's level for strawberries at times.
- Despite the predicted decrease in asparagus harvest, the Regional Office of Agriculture in Baden-Württemberg reported that 8,800 metric tons were harvested this season, a decrease of only 2% compared to the previous year.
- The unusual weather conditions, including flooding, impacted the production of various foods in the region, with asparagus and strawberries being particularly affected.
- The expected dip in asparagus yield in Fellbach, a city known for its statistics in agriculture, was 6,400 metric tons less than the previous year's harvest of 16,700 metric tons.
- The Regional Office in Baden-Württemberg noted that the floods in various parts of Fellbach contributed to the overall decrease in asparagus yields, which could have potential implications for the local food suppliers and restaurants that rely on this popular vegetable.
