Asparagus
Asparagus is a popular early-season vegetable. There are approximately 200 acres grown on 129 New York farms annually (2007 Census of Ag). The majority is sold for fresh-market, but a small amount (18 acres) goes for processing. Asparagus is available from the beginning of May through mid-June in New York. It is a popular vegetable at farmer's markets, U-pick operations, retail stands and is also grown for wholesale markets.Commercial asparagus fields are generally planted with one-year old crowns; however, transplants can also be used. Fields take two years to establish, but afterwards can remain in production for 10 to 20 years.
Weed Control in Asparagus
Chuck Bornt, Team Leader, Extension Vegetable Specialist
Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture
If you haven't already done your pre-emergent herbicide treatments in your asparagus, it's getting that time! Rutgers University in New Jersey recommends 2.5 lb Solicam DF plus 1-2 lbs Karmex DF (do not apply more than 3 pounds per season), 14 days prior to spear emergence (that's the pre-harvest interval) which means applications need to be going out very soon if not immediately (for beds that are at least 1 year old)! This tank mix works on a wide range of pre-emergent broadleaves and grass weeds and is relatively safe to the asparagus. Both of these materials will not work on already growing weeds and also work better if moisture is received soon after application. If weeds are present, the addition of Gramoxone or other paraquat containing material will help control those weeds already established. The addition of Calisto at 3.0 ozs per acre can also improve residual and Common Larmbsquarter and horseweed (marestail or stickweed) control.
Common Asparagus Beetle Management During Harvest Season
Ethan Grundberg, Vegetable Specialist
Eastern New York Commercial Horticulture
Asparagus beetle populations can build up quickly over the course of a couple of seasons. Fields with heavy infestations may require the use of an insecticide during harvest season to knock down the adult population. See what your labeled options are in New York and know that later season applications to target second and/or third beetle populations may also be necessary.
2018 Eastern New York Fruit & Vegetable Conference Vegetable Presentations
Presentations from the 2018 ENYCHP Eastern New York Fruit & Vegetable Conference held February 20th and 21st for the vegetable sections.
The Produce Pages, December 2013

Upcoming Events
Leading the Farm Team: Supervisory Skills for New Managers
April 14, 2026 : Session 1: Becoming a Supervisor
The transition from working alongside employees to supervising them can be challenging. This session explores the shift from individual contributor to supervisor and the mindset and skills needed to lead a team effectively. Participants will learn about the role of a supervisor, key leadership behaviors, and how to build trust and credibility with employees.
April 21, 2026 : Session 2: Improving Performance
This session will introduce the performance triad—clear expectations, training, and feedback—to support employee success. We will discuss practical communication strategies, how to give constructive feedback, and how supervisors can help employees improve their performance over time.
April 28, 2026 : Session 3: Managing Conflict
Supervisors are responsible for maintaining a professional and respectful workplace. This session covers some of the legal and ethical responsibilities of supervisors and the responsibilities managers have in addressing workplace concerns.
Participants will also explore common sources of workplace conflict, learn to recognize potential biases that can influence management decisions, and discuss practical approaches for addressing difficult situations and resolving conflicts at work.
