Evaluation of the Effects of Asparagus Decline Syndrome on Yield and Quality Parameters over Three Years in Western Europe
2025
Francisco Javier López-Moreno | Eloy Navarro-León | Santiago Atero-Calvo | Eduardo de la Lastra | Juan Manuel Ruiz | Teresa Soriano
Asparagus decline syndrome (ADS) poses a critical challenge to the productivity and quality of asparagus (<i>Asparagus officinalis</i> L.), threatening the sustainability of its cultivation. This study evaluated the impact of ADS over four years in Western Europe by comparing soils with and without a history of the syndrome. The results revealed a consistent reduction in yield, with losses of 36% in 2019 and 2020 and 23% in 2021 compared to the results for the control soils. ADS also increased the proportion of non-commercial spears, peaking at 52% in 2020. Key quality parameters were significantly affected by ADS, especially in the final year of the trial, with reductions observed in spear weight, diameter, firmness, and volume. On the other hand, °Brix values increased by 10% to 16%, while juiciness decreased by 10% to 28%, depending on the year, enhancing sweetness but compromising texture, and thereby, marketable quality. The findings highlight the detrimental effects of replanting asparagus in ADS-affected soils and the need for integrated management strategies to mitigate its impacts. This research contributes valuable insights into ADS dynamics, offering a foundation for developing agronomic solutions that enhance productivity and ensure the long-term viability of asparagus cultivation in affected regions.
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