The asparagus was cut a week later than last year at New Forest Fruit on 24th February.
"If the sun stays out it could help us make up for the later start," said Sandy Booth, Director and owner of New Forest Fruit, based in The New Forest, Hampshire. "We hope to cut 100 tons of early Asparagus this year."
© New Forest Fruits
The company grows 10 hectares of asparagus in unheated tunnels, which are situated in a unique microclimate which also makes them one of the earliest strawberry producers in the UK. The asparagus beds are made from the waste coir from the strawberries and no chemicals are needed.
"We are not the first growers in the UK to have asparagus, but we are close enough. The brix this year is the highest we have seen at 10 -11, imports are at around 6."
New Forest Fruit grows green and purple asparagus, according to Sandy the purple asparagus is best eaten raw as tastes like fresh peas out of the pod.
For more information:
Jackie Barr
New Forest Fruit Company
Tel.: +44 (0)1590 612297
Email: [email protected]
www.newforestfruit.com
