Asparagus Production in Australia

Overview

Out of all of the vegetables harvested in Australia, asparagus is a popular vegetable among the citizens. Asparagus is typically divided into two categories: a spring cut and a summer cut. The latter is primarily saved for the domestic market. Because of the low cost of the imported products, minimal processing occurs of the local production.

Statistics (2019)

1. The supply per capita of asparagus was recorded at 418 grams, based on the volume that was supplied.
2. Ten thousand two hundred thirty-seven million tonnes of asparagus was produced, and the total value amounts to $86.6 million.
3. 31% of Australian households bought asparagus, which totals up to an average of 244 grams of the vegetable per shopping trip.
4. The wholesale value of asparagus was $118 million, with $26.3 million invested in the food space.

Asparagus Facts

The name for this vegetable — a member of the lily family — comes from the Greek word meaning “shoot” or “sprout.” Now widely cultivated throughout the world, this regal vegetable is believed to have originated 2,000 years ago in the eastern Mediterranean region, where it was prized for its unique texture and alleged medicinal and aphrodisiacal qualities.

This fruit spears grow from a crown planted in sandy soils and, under ideal conditions, can grow 10 inches in a 24-hour period. The most common types are green, but you might see two others in supermarkets and restaurants: white, which is more delicate and difficult to harvest, and purple, which is smaller and fruitier.

Asparagus Growing Areas

Victoria is a major producer of this vegetable, and the dominant area where this vegetable is grown is Koo Wee Rup. Melbourne is another area where an enormous amount of this vegetable is produced. Moreover, Mildura is also known for harvesting this vegetable.

Asparagus Production by State

Asparagus International Trade

Australia is said to be a net exporter of this vegetable. Hence, it imports more than 4,000 to 4,400 tonnes every year. Moreover, as 2019 came to a close, Australia imported 4,092 tonnes. Simultaneously, it exported 3,799 tonnes. Therefore, the imports can be counted in the negative tonnes.

Article by: Hari Yellina (Orchard Tech)