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Špargelj (Asparagus officinalis L.) je trajnica iz družine beluševk (Asparagaceae). Je gospodarsko pomembna vrtnina, pri kateri nabiramo mlade poganjke. V špargljiščih ga pridelujemo predvsem v poznem spomladanskem času, ki je glavni čas pobiranja špargljev. Zaradi povpraševanja po tej vrtnini v drugih delih leta, so razvili različne tehnike gojenja izvensezonskih špargljev, s katerimi bi zadovoljili potrebe kupcev. Po svetu uporabljajo različne tehnike, ki se razlikujejo predvsem glede na klimatske razmere. Poznani so klasični preprosti postopki, kot so uporaba zavarovanih prostorov, prekrivanje tal in nizki tuneli, s katerimi lahko spodbudimo zgodnejši pridelek. Na nekaterih toplejših območjih se je za uspešno metodo izkazala uporaba benzil adenina, za kasnejši prehod v stanje dormance, ali pa sistem »matičnih stebel«, ki omogoča celoletno pridelavo, vendar take rastline dosežejo krajšo življenjsko dobo. Zelo uspešne, vendar investicijsko nekoliko dražje tehnike za izvensezonsko pridelavo, uporabljajo ogrevanje tal pod grebeni špargljev, iz različnih toplotnih virov (geotermalna energija, uporaba biomase). Vsi ti načini pridelave in kombinacije le teh, so zaradi višje cene samega prodajnega produkta izven glavne sezone, uspešni in ekonomsko upravičeni. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) is a perennial plant of the asparagus family (Asparagaceae). It is an economically quite important vegetable, from which we select young shoots. The main harvesting season in the asparagus fields is in late spring. Due to the demand for this vegetable at other times of the year, various techniques have been developed for growing asparagus out of season to meet the needs of customers. Different techniques are used all over the world, depending mainly on climatic conditions. There are well-known classic, simple techniques such as the use of protected areas, ground cover and low tunnels that can be used to encourage earlier harvesting. In some warmer areas, the technique of using benzyladenine for a later transition to dormancy or the "mother shoot" system is used, which allows year-round production. However, with this technique, the plants have a shorter life span. Very successful, but more expensive techniques for off-season cultivation are heating the soil under the asparagus shoots by various heat sources (geothermal, use of biomass). All these methods of cultivation and their combinations are successful and economically justified, because the product itself out of the main season, obtains a higher price.

Yield physiology of asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) is strongly influenced by biotic factors such as crown and root rot caused by Fusarium spp. and by abiotic conditions such as precipitation or temperatures, duration of each harvest, and field management practices. Asparagus yields are linked to the availability of soluble carbohydrates (CHO) in the storage root system which is considered a key factor in asparagus productivity. The aim of this study was to quantify the impacts of the long-term application of a range of potential Best Management Practices (BMPs) on yield and storage root carbohydrate content in green asparagus in a long-term field trial. The trial was established in 2016 with the asparagus ‘Gijnlim’ variety. Commercial yields were collected in 2018, 2019 and 2020. Root carbohydrate content was determined in 2019 and 2020. BMPs included (1) companion crops - Rye (Secale cereale L.), Mustard (Sinapis alba L.), (2) interrow surface mulch applications of either straw mulch or PAS 100 compost (Publicly available specification) in combination with shallow soil disturbance (SSD), (3) the conventional practice and modifications of the conventional tillage practice by applying SSD or not applying SSD and (4) a zero-tillage option. Annual re-ridging (R) and not ridging (NR) were applied to BMP options 1–3. SSD had no significant impact on asparagus yields while annual re-ridging negatively affected total yields of treatments with bare soil interrows, which were managed without SSD. Conventional practice was associated with a 22% yield reduction and ∼€4250 ha−1 annual loss in potential revenue as compared to the Zero-tillage treatment. Companion cropping with mustard did not have a significant impact on asparagus yields. Rye without annual re-ridging was however associated with yield reductions of > 20% as compared to the Conventional practice. PAS 100 Compost applied in asparagus interrows (at 25 t ha−1 per year) in combination with SSD without annual re-ridging resulted in improvements to yields of 20%, 10% and 34% in 2018, 2019 and 2020, respectively, as compared to the Conventional practice. No correlation was observed between storage root soluble carbohydrate content and asparagus yields. The results of this study confirmed that asparagus yield, and thus total farm income can be significantly improved through implementation of several of the BMPs investigated. Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (Project FV450a and FV450b)

El espárrago (Asparagus officinalis L.) es un apreciado cultivo conocido desde la antigüedad en el que diversos estudios han puesto de manifiesto su escasa variabilidad genética, posiblemente ocasionada por el origen común de la mayoría de los cultivares actuales. Esta reducida variabilidad ha comprometido el desarrollo de nuevos cultivares poniendo en riesgo la adaptabilidad del cultivo a los nuevos escenarios impuesto por el cambio climático. Como parte de esta tesis y con el objetivo de ampliar el acervo genético de esta especie se han desarrollado dos poblaciones base de mejora, una hexaploide y otra diploide, de aproximadamente 1000 plantas cada una con introgresiones de especies CWR (Crop Wild Relatives, parientes silvestres del cultivo) y de la variedad local tetraploide “Morado de Huétor” (A. officinalis x A. maritimus). En el desarrollo de la nueva población hexaploide se han empleado 4 especies CWR (A. maritimus, A. pseudoscaber, A. brachyphyllus y A. macrorrhizus), esta población es la segunda generación de un primer retrocruzamiento utilizando la variedad local tetraploide "Morado de Huétor" como progenitor recurrente. La nueva población diploide con introgresiones de la variedad local “Morado de Huétor” es la segunda generación de un primer retrocruzamiento que ha empleado diferentes plantas cultivadas diploides como padre recurrente. Ambas poblaciones se han obtenido en polinización abierta. La diversidad de las poblaciones se analizó mediante seis marcadores EST-SSR (Expressed Sequence Tag-Simple Sequence Repeat). Se utilizo un muestreo aleatorio de 60 y 57 plantas, en las poblaciones hexaploide y diploide, respectivamente, para estimar la variabilidad genética. Los resultados se compararon con los datos obtenidos previamente en las colecciones parentales de origen, en un grupo de plantas de la variedad local "Morado de Huétor" y en un conjunto representativo de plantas de diferentes cultivares diploides disponibles en la actualidad de espárrago. Los valores medio de PIC (contenido de información polimórfica) de las nuevas poblaciones hexaploide y diploide con respecto a la colección de plantas “Morado de Huétor”, mostro un valor similar en la nueva población hexaploide (>0,8) y uno ligeramente inferior en la diploide (0.75). Ambas colecciones presentaron valores de PIC superiores a la colección de cultivares diploides (0,61). Además en la nueva colección hexaploide se detectó que el 22,2% de los alelos que presentaba pertenecían exclusivamente a especies CWR empleadas en este estudio, mientras que la nueva población diploide el 52.4 % de sus alelos eran específicos de “Morado de Huétor”. Los análisis de coordenadas principales (ACoP) realizados en ambas poblaciones revelaron una clara diferencia de la diversidad genética entre las nuevas poblaciones del estudio. Además, ambas poblaciones de 1000 plantas se evaluaron para caracteres agronómicos de interés agronómicos (precocidad, numero de tallos, altura de ramificación y grosor de los tallos) durante dos años y se seleccionaron un total de 80 en la población hexaploide y 67 en la diploide, con el objetivo de desarrollar una población base de mejora. Ambas poblaciones mostraron una variación significativa para todos los caracteres (P0.8) and a slightly lower one in the diploid (0.75). Both collections showed higher PIC values than the diploid cultivar collection (0.61). Furthermore, in the new hexaploid population 22.2% of the alleles presented were unique to the CWR species used in this study, while in the new diploid population 52.4% of its alleles were specific to landrace "Morado de Huétor". Principal coordinate analyses (PCoA) performed on both populations revealed a clear difference in genetic diversity between the new study populations. In addition, both populations of 1000 plants were evaluated for agronomic traits of interest for breeding (earliness, number of stalks, branching height and stalk thickness) for two years. A total of 80 and 67 plants, from the hexaploid and diploid populations, respectively, were selected to develop breeding base populations. Results from both selected populations showed significant variation for all traits (P

The wild asparagus Asparagus acutifolius L. is common in the Mediterranean Basin. Wild asparagus spears are an important food source within their native range, and can be used as a sustainable nutrition source. In addition, interest has risen in wild relative species of Asparagus as a source of genetic improvement in Asparagus officinalis L. In this study, the quality traits (spear colour, total soluble solid content, dry matter content and chlorophyll and sugar fractions) and health-related compounds (total phenolics and antioxidant capacity) of fresh spears of wild and cultivated asparagus grown in Turkey were compared using the same three harvest periods for two consecutive years. The results of this study indicated that spears of wild asparagus contained a higher level of greenness (–a*), hue angle, total soluble solid, dry matter, chlorophyll, sugars, total phenolic content and antioxidant activity, compared to cultivated asparagus. Although there was no significant difference in the total soluble solid, glucose, sucrose and antioxidant activity in the contents of the spears of both species throughout the season, the colour, dry matter, chlorophyll, fructose, total sugar and total phenolic content were subject to seasonal variations. Colour, chlorophyll and total phenolic content showed some minor fluctuations over the course of the season, but the patterns of fructose and total sugar differed, which tended to increase throughout the harvest season. The present work suggests greater quality traits and biochemical compounds of the spears of A. acutifolius compared with those of commonly cultivated species.

Excessive host inflammation following infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is associated with severity and mortality in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). We recently reported that the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein S1 subunit (S1) induces pro-inflammatory responses by activating toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling in macrophages. A standardized extract of Asparagus officinalis stem (EAS) is a unique functional food that elicits anti-photoaging effects by suppressing pro-inflammatory signaling in hydrogen peroxide and ultraviolet B-exposed skin fibroblasts. To elucidate its potential in preventing excessive inflammation in COVID-19, we examined the effects of EAS on pro-inflammatory responses in S1-stimulated macrophages. Murine peritoneal exudate macrophages were co-treated with EAS and S1. Concentrations and mRNA levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines were assessed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and reverse transcription and real-time polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Expression and phosphorylation levels of signaling proteins were analyzed using western blotting and fluorescence immunomicroscopy. EAS significantly attenuated S1-induced secretion of interleukin (IL)-6 in a concentration-dependent manner without reducing cell viability. EAS also markedly suppressed the S1-induced transcription of IL-6 and IL-1β. However, among the TLR4 signaling proteins, EAS did not affect the degradation of inhibitor κBα, nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB p65 subunit, and phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase p54 subunit after S1 exposure. In contrast, EAS significantly suppressed S1-induced phosphorylation of p44/42 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Akt. Attenuation of S1-induced transcription of IL-6 and IL-1β by the MAPK kinase inhibitor U0126 was greater than that by the Akt inhibitor perifosine, and the effects were potentiated by simultaneous treatment with both inhibitors. These results suggest that EAS attenuates S1-induced IL-6 and IL-1β production by suppressing p44/42 MAPK and Akt signaling in macrophages. Therefore, EAS may be beneficial in regulating excessive inflammation in patients with COVID-19.

Field operations associated with UK asparagus production (re-ridging and intensive foot and vehicular trafficking of the wheelings) can result in severe deep-seated compaction in interrows, impacting on crop health and productivity. In this project, we investigate the long-term efficacy of a range of Best Management Practices (BMPs) targeted at preventing or remediating soil compaction in asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) interrows as compared to Conventional practice. BMPs included (1) companion crops - Rye (Sereale cecale L.), Mustard (Sinapis alba L.), (2) interrow surface mulch applications (straw mulch and PAS 100 compost in combination with shallow soil disturbance (SSD)), (3) modifications of the conventional tillage practice (re-ridging (R) or not ridging (NR) and applying SSD or not applying SSD) and (4) a zero-tillage option. In general, companion cropping had no effect on soil compaction or water infiltration rates as compared to the Conventional practice. Application and incorporation of straw mulch or PAS 100 compost however significantly reduced soil compaction of the interrows to >0.45 m beyond the working depth of the subsoiler (0.25 m). Composts and mulches in combination with SSD significantly reduce deep-seated compaction of the interrows within 3 years of annual application. Further, Conventional practice equivalent treatment (Bare soil No-SSD R) was associated with significantly higher PR values as compared to the zero-tillage (Bare soil No-SSD NR). These findings show that the extremely high levels of deep-seated compaction in interrows, associated with re-ridging, foot and vehicular traffic can be alleviated using surface mulches in combination with SSD.

The historical reference of Asparagus officinalis (Asparagus officinalis L.), its species composition and practical use is given. Biological and agrotechnical features of culture, the most common diseases and pests are presented. Grades and methods of selection work. Sexual type of asparagus, perennial varieties and the ability of plants to vegetative propagation are important factors in asparagus breeding. The following methods are used in asparagus selection: hybridization; formation of male varieties via self-pollination of bisexual flowers found on male plants; utilization of the heterosis effect the formation of homozygous inbred-lines; production of tetraploid forms by exposure of colchicine to asparagus seedlings. Selection can be done either on individual plants or using multiple approach. Improvement of selection may be achieved using several parameters: plant yield, the mass of seedlings; plant height of the most developed shoot; the number of shoots. This allows to discard undesirable forms at early stages. Laboratory of green vegetables, spicy-flavoring and flower crops of the Federal Scientific Vegetable Center possesses the collection nursery of 7 samples of Asparagus officinalis: K-25, K-28, K-41, K-46, Mary Washington Bruswick, Paradise. The latter are used for Asparagus selection with the aim to retain economically valuable traits.

The aim of this study was to verify the response of 13 American asparagus cultivars cultivated for green spear on surface postharvest drip irrigation. Irrigation, used to compensate for periodic deficiencies in precipitation, allows for high- and good-quality crops for many species. The field experiment was carried out in 2006–2008 on a very light sandy soil in central Europe (Poland). Irrigation treatments were applied using the tensiometer indications. Water requirements of asparagus were calculated on the base of reference evapotranspiration and crop coefficients. The following evaluations were made: Height, diameter, and number of summer stalks, as well marketable yield, weight, and number of consumption green spears. Drip irrigation applied for 2 years (2006–2007) in the postharvest period had a positive effect on all studied traits in both summer stalks and green spears in 2007–2008. A significant increase in the height, number, and diameter of summer stalks, as well an increase in the marketable yield, weight, and number of green spears was observed for most of the cultivars. In general, postharvest drip irrigation of asparagus cultivated in very light sandy soil significantly contributes to the increase in productivity of American cultivars of this species.

Priljubljenost špargljev v zadnjih letih narašča, predvsem zaradi njihovega ugodnega vpliva na zdravje človeka. V okviru diplomske naloge smo želeli podati pregled literature s področja bioaktivnih snovi, ki se nahajajo v navadnem šparglju (Asparagus officinalis L.). Naloga zajema seznam in opis bioaktivnih spojin ter njihovih antioksidativnih in fizioloških učinkov. Poglobi se v delovanje različnih sekundarnih metabolitov kot so fenolne spojine, predvsem flavonoidi, fenolne kisline in antociani ter saponini in ostali antioksidanti. Podrobneje obravnava najbolj zastopane spojine, kot sta rutin in protodioscin, vključuje pa tudi v manjših koncentracijah prisotne bioaktivne komponente, kot so glutation, žveplo-vsebujoče spojine, karotenoidi, klorofili, vitamini in minerali. Opisana je tudi primerjava prisotnosti teh spojin med različnimi deli rastline. Naloga predstavi, kako različni načini pridelave in predelave vplivajo na njihovo vsebnost. Opiše vpliv organske in konvencionalne pridelave ter svetlobe in temperature na stabilnost bioaktivnih spojin. Raziskali smo tudi vpliv različnih načinov skladiščenja, kot je modificirana atmosfera, zamrzovanje in hlajenje na vsebnost omenjenih fitokemikalij. Podani so tudi rezultati določanja antoksidativnega potenciala špargljev. The popularity of asparagus has been rising in the recent years due to its positive effect on human health. In this graduation thesis we wanted to put forward a comprehensive review of literature from the field of bioactive compounds, that are found in the asparagus plant (Asparagus officinalis L.). This thesis includes a list and descriptions of bioactive compounds and their antioxidant and physiological effects. It dives deeper into the function of different secondary metabolites like phenolic compounds, most importantly flavonoids, phenolic acids and anthocyanidins but also includes saponins and other antioxidants. It elaborates on the most abundant compounds such as rutin and protodioscin in addition to those less represented, such as glutation, sulphur-containing compounds, carotenoids, chlorophylls, vitamins and minerals. Furthermore, it compares the content of these compounds in different parts of the plant. This thesis presents how different cultivation systems and processing methods affect bioactive compound concentrations. It focuses on the effects of organic and conventional cultivation along with light and temperature on their stability. We researched how different storage methods like modified atmosphere, freezing and chilling affect phytochemical concentrations. Results of antioxidant potential assays done on asparagus are presented as well.

Asparagus represents a nutritious and refined food being very popular to consumers. The effects on the quality of spears cooked by conventional (boiling, steaming and microwaving) and different sous vide (using hot water or microwave) methods were analyzed. Physical, chemical and sensory traits were compared. Microwaving caused the largest weight change, the highest dry weight increase and the highest Total Color Difference in cooked samples compared to raw asparagus spears. Sous vide-microwaving showed an increase in greenness (the highest value of h°), better than the raw spears, and the lowest reduction in chlorophyll contents. After sous vide microwawing violaxanthin increased by about 42%, while after steaming neoaxanthin decreased by about 57%. Following sensory analysis, all cooked samples generally resulted acceptable (scores > 5 in a 1–9 hedonic scale), nevertheless sous vide-microwaved asparagus satisfied consumer acceptability more than the other cooked samples, especially when compared to steamed samples. Results indicate the sous vide-microwaving technique as optimal to preserve several traits, including the organoleptic ones, essential for the quality of cook-chilled asparagus spears. They also provide product-specific information usually required for cooking process strategies in the industrial area of ready-to-eat vegetables.

Zbog brojnih nutritivnih vrijednosti i potencijalnoga pozitivnoga učinka na ljudsko zdravlje, šparoga se pokazala kao interesantna kultura za konzumaciju te predmet brojnih znanstvenih ispitivanja. Samonikla šparoga (Asparagus acutifolius L.) raste duž Jadranske obale i otoka, dok se kultivirana šparoga (Asparagus officinalis L.) uglavnom uzgaja u istočnome dijelu Hrvatske. Ovim istraživanjem određivan je ukupni sadržaj polifenola (spektofotometrijski) i antioksidativna aktivnost (DPPH) kod samoniklih i kultiviranih šparoga. Rezultati su pokazali da nema statistički značajne razlike u sadržaju ukupnih polifenola između samoniklih i kultiviranih šparoga. Najviša vrijednost ukupnih polifenola samoniklih šparoga iznosila je 6,20 [mg GAE/g svježe tvari], odnosno 49,60 [mg GAE/g suhe tvari], dok je kod kultiviranih šparoga bila 4,52 [mg GAE/g svježe tvari], odnosno 50,93 [mg GAE/g suhe tvari]. Antioksidativna aktivnost mjerena DPPH (2,2-difenil-1-pikrilhidrazil) metodom, pokazala je statistički značajne razlike. Veća je antioksidativna aktivnost izmjerena kod kultiviranih, nego kod samoniklih šparoga. Također je utvrđeno da porastom polifenola raste antioksidativna aktivnost, ali više kod kultiviranih šparoga. Temeljem rezultata, zaključujemo da je kultivirana šparoga odlična alternativa samonikloj, koja bi trebala biti zaštićena od pretjeranog ubiranja, kako bi se zaštitila prirodna raznolikost obale i otoka., Asparagus is an interesting vegetable as a part of a healthy diet and has been widely studied due to the high nutritional value and potential positive effects on human health. Wild asparagus (Asparagus acutifolius L.) grows along the Adriatic coast and islands, while the cultivated asparagus (A. officinalis L.) is mostly grown in the eastern region of Croatia. The aim of this study was to determine total polyphenol content (measured spectrophotometrically) and antioxidant activity (DPPH) in wild and cultivated asparagus. No significant differences in total polyphenol content were found between wild and cultivated asparagus. The highest content of polyphenols in wild asparagus was 6.20 [mg GAE/g fresh weight] and 49.60 [mg GAE/g dry weight], and in cultivated asparagus it was 4.52 [mg GAE/g fresh weight] and 50.93 [mg GAE/g dry weight]. Antioxidant activity measured using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method showed statistically significant difference. Higher antioxidant activity was measured in cultivated than in wild asparagus. The results also indicate that increased polyphenol content leads to higher antioxidant activity, but more so in the cultivated asparagus. Based on the results, the cultivated asparagus is an excellent alternative to wild asparagus that should be protected from over-harvesting, thus preventing devastation of plant diversity of islands and coast.

Celem badań była ocena wpływu Pseudomonas fluorescens I-4 (Ps I-4) na Fusarium culmorum wyizolowanego z uprawy białego szparaga. Fusarium culmorum i pozostałe grzyby izolowano na podłożach PDA i szparagowym. Wśród izolatów uzyskanych z gleby najbardziej dominującymi patogenami były F. oxysporum i F. culmorum. Właściwości biologiczne nielotnych i lotnych związków Ps I-4 oceniano metodą hodowlano-płytkową na podłożach PDA i Czapka. Aktywność przeciwgrzybową określano na podstawie indeksu tempa wzrostu, zdolności kiełkowania zarodników, stopnia zahamowania wzrostu grzybni i zarodników. Wyniki wykazały różnice w aktywności przeciwgrzybowej P. fluorescens, w zależności od wieku i gęstości hodowli bakteryjnej, rodzaju pożywki i obecności lotnych lub nielotnych metabolitów. Ps I-4 wykazał wyższą aktywność na zdolność kiełkowania zarodników grzybów (82–94% zahamowania) niż w przypadku wzrostu grzybni F. culmorum. Największe hamowanie liniowego wzrostu grzybni było obserwowane po zastosowaniu supernatantów otrzymanych z 6-godzinnej hodowli (zahamowanie 64–76%). P. fluorescens I-4 wykazał również zdolność syntezy metabolitów: HCN, sideroforów, proteaz, lipaz i solubilizacji fosforanu., Assessment of the effect of Pseudomonas fluorescens I-4 (Ps I-4) on the Fusarium culmorum isolated from the cultivation of white asparagus was the aim of the conducted research. Fusarium culmorum and other fungi were isolated on the PDA and asparagus media. Among the isolates obtained from soil, F. oxysporum and F. culmorum were the most dominant pathogens. The biological properties of non-volatile and volatile compounds of Ps I-4 were assessed with the culture-plate method on the PDA and Czapek media. The fungistatic activity of bacterium was determined against the growth rate index, the spore germination index and the rate of mycelial growth and spore inhibition. The results show differences in the fungistatic activity of P. fluorescens, dependent on the age and density of the bacterial culture, the type of medium and the presence of volatile or non-volatile metabolites. The obtained results prove, that Ps I-4 show a higher activity against the fungal spores germination (82–94% inhibition) than on mycelium growth of F. culmorum. The highest inhibition of the linear growth of mycelium has been observed for the supernatants obtained from a 6-hour culture (64–76% inhibition). P. fluorescens I-4 showed positive reactions for the production of HCN, siderophores, protease, lipase and phosphate solubilisation

Namen poskusa je bil preučiti dva ukrepa za pospešitev rasti pri pridelavi zelenega šparglja ter na osnovi zbranih podatkov podati informacijo o uporabnosti ukrepov za pospeševanje rasti in njihov vpliv na zgodnost pridelka. V poskus smo vključili dve obravnavanji: neposredno prekrivanje tal s polipropilensko prekrivko in postavitvijo nizkih tunelov nad vrsticami špargljišča ter nepokrita tla. Poskus smo izvedli v 4 ponovitvah, po 10 rastlin na ponovitev. Tla so bila neposredno prekrita s polipropilensko prekrivko od začetka marca do vznika prvih poganjkov nato smo prekrivko odstranili. Od začetka marca 2017 so bili postavljeni nizki tuneli, prekriti s polietilensko prekrivko, visoki 0,5 m in dolgi 5 m. 3. aprila 2017 smo postavili merilce relativne vlage in temperature. V poskus je bila vključena sorta šparglja 'Dariana'. Meritve na rastlinah smo izvajali med 8. in 18. aprilom 2017. Merili smo hitrost rasti poganjkov ter ob pobiranju dolžino, premer in maso tržnega poganjka. Na podlagi rezultatov, ki smo jih pridobili s poljskim poskusom, smo ugotovili, da neposredno prekrivanje tal s polipropilensko prekrivko in prekrivanje z nizkimi tuneli vplivata na dvig talne temperature, v povprečju za 6,1 °C. Prekrivanje z nizkimi tuneli vpliva na mikroklimo, ustvarja višjo relativno zračno vlago (v povprečju za 3,4 %) in višjo temperaturo zraka (v povprečju za 11,9 °C). Vpliva tudi na hitrejšo rast poganjkov, kar se na koncu odrazi v večjem pridelku (na pokritih tleh 244,5 g/m2, na nepokritih 37,9 g/m2). Na pokritih delih nasada se pobiranje poganjkov začne 6 dni prej kot na nepokritih delih in zato se lahko posledično podaljša sezona pobiranja pridelka. Ugodnejša mikroklima pod nizkimi tuneli je omogočila razvoj večjega števila poganjkov, ki so bili večji, debelejši in težji v primerjavi z nepokritimi gredicami. In our research, two measures to stimulate growth in green asparagus production were studied in order to provide information on the usefulness of growth promotion measures and their impact on crop yield. Two treatments were included in the experiment: covering of soil with polypropylene cover and the placement of low tunnels covered with polyethylene above the rows of asparagus and the uncovered rows. The soil was directly covered with polypropylene from the beginning of March until the first shoots emerged. Then, the cover was removed and the low tunnels, 0.5 m high and 5 m long covered with polyethylene were installed (from the beginning of March 2017). A variety of 'Dariana' asparagus was included in the study. The experiment was designed in 4 replicates and 10 plants in one replication. Measurements on plants were performed between April 8 and 18, 2017. During this period, the growth rate of shoots was measured and at harvest, the length, diameter, and mass of individual shoot were measured. Results showed that low tunnels have an effect of increasing the soil temperature by an average of 6.1 °C. Bed covering with low tunnel affected the microclimate creating higher relative air humidity (on average for 3.4%) and higher air temperature (on average for 11.9 °C) and also affects faster shoot growth which resulted in higher yield (on the covered soils 244.5 g/m² and on the uncovered 37.9 g/m²). On the covered parts of the plantation, the harvest of the shoots starts 6 days earlier than on the uncovered parts and as a consequence, the harvesting season can be prolonged. The more favorable microclimate under the low tunnels resulted in a larger number of harvested shoots that were larger, thicker, and heavier in comparison to the uncovered plots.

La presente investigación tuvo como objetivo determinar la evaporación y requerimientos de agua para la programación de riego de los cultivos Saccharum officinarum L. (Poaceae) "caña de azúcar", Zea mayz L. (Poaceae) "maíz" y Asparagus officinalis L. (Asparagaceae) "espárrago" en el valle Chicama, Perú. Se consideraron las comisiones de regantes de Ascope, Paiján, La Pampa, Magdalena de Cao y Yalpa, Santiago de Cao y Sausal. El consumo de agua para uso agrícola fue 577 534 295.64 m3 empleadas en riego de 648 253.22 ha en el valle Chicama. Los requerimientos hídricos y programación de riego de los cultivos, volúmenes de agua por hectáreas, según análisis de correlación de Pearson fue (r > 0.60, p < 0.05), obteniéndose una correlación significativa en las comisiones de regantes. Las comisiones de riego Ascope, Paiján, Magdalena de Cao y Yalpa, y Santiago de Cao presentaron mayores áreas cultivadas, en consecuencia, mayor consumo de agua. La comisión de regantes La Pampa presentó menor área cultivada, lo que generó menor consumo de agua. Además se encontró una relación negativa en la comisión de regantes Sausal This study was to assess evapotranspiration and water requirements for crop irrigation scheduling of Saccharum officinarum L. (Poaceae) "sugar cane", Zea mays L. (Poaceae) "corn" and Asparagus officinalis L. (Asparagaceae) "asparagus" in the Chicama Valley, Peru, considering the irrigation commissions of Ascope, Paiján, La Pampa, Magdalena de Cao and Yalpa, Santiago de Cao and Sausal. Water consumption for agricultural use was 577 534 295.64 m3 employed in irrigation of 648 253.22 ha in the Chicama Valley. The water requirements and crop irrigation scheduling, water volumes per hectare, according to Pearson’s correlation analysis was (r > 0.60, p < 0.05), obtaining a significant correlation in the irrigation commissions. Irrigation commissions of Ascope, Paiján, Magdalena de Cao and Yalpa, and Santiago de Cao had larger cultivated areas, consequently, more water consumption. The irrigation commission of La Pampa had smaller cultivated area, which resulted in lower water consumption. In addition, a negative relationship in the commission of irrigators of Sausal was found

Background Heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) exhibits protective effects against ultraviolet (UV)-induced premature skin aging. A standardized extract of Asparagus officinalis stem (EAS) is produced as a novel and unique functional food that induces HSP70 cellular expression. To elucidate the anti-photoaging potencies of EAS, we examined its effects on HSP70 expression levels in UV-B-irradiated normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs). Methods NHDFs were treated with 1 mg/mL of EAS or dextrin (vehicle control) prior to UV-B irradiation (20 mJ/cm2). After culturing NHDFs for different time periods, HSP70 mRNA and protein levels were analyzed using real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting, respectively. Results UV-B-irradiated NHDFs showed reduced HSP70 mRNA levels after 1–6 h of culture, which were recovered after 24 h of culture. Treatment with EAS alone for 24 h increased HSP70 mRNA levels in the NHDFs, but the increase was not reflected in its protein levels. On the other hand, pretreatment with EAS abolished the UV-B irradiation-induced reduction in HSP70 expression at both mRNA and protein levels. These results suggest that EAS is capable to preserve HSP70 quantity in UV-B-irradiated NHDFs. Conclusions EAS exhibits anti-photoaging potencies by preventing the reduction in HSP70 expression in UV-irradiated dermal fibroblasts. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12199-018-0730-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

‘Fukukitaru’, a new cultivar of asparagus(Asparagus officinalis L.) was developed at Fukushima Agricultural Technology Centre.‘ Fukukitaru’ is an F1 hybrid between two asparagus plants‘ 0103’ and ‘9837’, which had been selected at Fukushima Agricultural Technology Centre. The plant length and the length from the base to the first branch are longer than those of‘Welcome’. Spear emergence of ‘Fukukitaru’ is earlier than ‘Welcome’ in open field culture. The marketable spear yield is higher than that of‘ Welcome’.

Weed competition during spears harvesting reduces asparagus yields. The application of herbicides during this period is illegal, and alternative non-chemical practices are needed. This research tested the effectiveness and efficiency of a custom-built combined flamer-cultivator to control weeds (both in the inter- and intra- spears production bands) during the spears harvest season. It also analysed the effects of various liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) doses on total asparagus yield, mean spear weight, and total number of marketable spears. In both years, the asparagus spears were generally not damaged by flame weeding using LPG doses of between 43 to 87 kg/ha. The same LPG doses were effective in controlling weeds, showing the same total marketable yields as the weed-free control. At high LPG doses (e.g. 130 and 260 kg/ha), yields decreased as a consequence of the damage caused to the spears, resulting in a lower number of marketable spears. Flaming did not affect the mean spear weight, and can be applied repeatedly during harvesting to maintain the weeds at a level that does not lead to a yield reduction. The repeated use of the combined flamer-cultivator (every seven days) led to higher yields than plots where weed control was not conducted. The new machine can be used in a period when herbicides are not possible. Flaming could be introduced by asparagus producers as an alternative, or in addition to herbicides applied in the pre-emergence and post-harvest of spears.

Asparagus, carnation and strawberry are major horticultural crops in southern Spain, where diseases caused by soilborne pathogens are frequent. Among them, Fusarium spp. are the fungi more frequently associated to the infection of underground plant organs. Flavonoids are phenolic compounds which possess a wide range of biological activities, including antifungal activity. In this work we evaluated the in vitro effect of an extract enriched in flavonoids obtained from triguero asparagus by-products against Fusarium oxysporum pathogenic to asparagus, carnation and strawberry, as well as its safety in asparagus plants. A significant inhibition of mycelial growth and sporulation of F. oxysporum f. sp. asparagi, F. oxysporum f. sp. dianthi and F. oxysporum pathogenic to strawberry was obtained by the addition of the asparagus extract enriched in flavonoids in three independent experiments and using the amended plate technique. Besides, in vitro tests were conducted aiming at assessing the effect of the extract in asparagus plants. Seed germination and growth of asparagus in medium amended with the asparagus extract enriched in flavonoids were similar to those in the not amended medium. Our results constitute the first report of the antifungal properties of bioactive compounds, mainly flavonoids, from asparagus by-products, and show these extracts as a promising alternative within horticultural crop protection strategies. © 2014 Elsevier B.V., This work was funded by CICE, Junta de Andalucia, Spain (grant number P07-AGR02364) and by a IFAPA scholarship to C. Rosado-Álvarez.

Garden asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) is a perennial plant which belongs to the Asparagaceae family native to Asia, North Africa and Europe. This variety is an economically important crop with a high value in terms of food, drug activity and industry. Asparagus is rich in functional components such as Flavonoids, Saponin and Glutathione with high antioxidation activity. In comparison to 23 analyzed vegetables commonly consumed, it has been found that asparagus is the first in terms of total quality and quantity of antioxidants as a functional food. This plant has been used in a variety of (fresh or dried) foods and also as a traditional medicinal herb in both Asia (as a tonic, anticancer, and antitussive drug, especially in China) and Europe (as treatment for urinary tract inflammation). This study reviewed the most important chemical constituents in asparagus and its therapeutic properties.

El espárrago (Asparagus officinalis L.) es un producto delicado cuyo destino son segmentos de mercados muy exigentes en la presentación y cada vez más proclives a la adquisición de productos IV Gama, presentados en bandeja y listos para consumir. Actualmente, existen técnicas innovadoras de manejo productivo (empleo de plantines) y manejo poscosecha (empleo de bandejas). Con el objetivo de estudiar el impacto sobre el rendimiento de densidades (D1: 35.714; D2: 23.810 y D3: 17.857 pl/ha), tamaños de plantines PG:celda grande (70 cm E3), PM:celda mediana (50 cm E3) y PP:celda pequeña (20 cm E3) y la pérdida de peso fresco durante la poscosecha de turiones de distintos calibres (Large L, Medium M y Small S) acondicionados en bandejas con (CF) y sin film (SF), se realizó un ensayo, en la Facultad de Agronomía, UNCPBA, en donde se evaluaron las variables: productividad neta comercial (PNCH) (kg/ha); por cosecha (PNCC) (kg/cosecha); Nº de turiones (NT) y peso promedio por turión (PPT). PNCH fue 1º año: 8012,6 kg/ha; 2º año: 4468,86 kg/ha (p < 0,05), mientras que PG:5.757, PM:6.213 y PP:6.688 kg/ha. El PPT de PG:10,46; PM:9,86 y PP:10,77 g/turión. D1 produjo 1069,14 kg/ha más y la mayor cantidad de turiones/ha (648,033). El peso fresco de los turiones acondicionados CF resultó estadísticamente superior (p < 0,05), obteniéndose en promedio 13,0 y para SF 10,45 g/turión. Respecto de los calibres los mayores perdieron menos peso (CF-L:5; CF-M:5; CF-S:9,1 %; SF-L:26; SF-M:35; SF-S: 36,36 %). Solo se conservaron características organolépticas en CF; L:50, M:28,57 y S:14,28 %. Por lo expuesto convendría utilizar D1 y el empleo de bandejas para su acondicionamiento.

En esta investigación se estimaron indicadores de viabilidad y de eficiencia económica de la producción de espárrago (Asparagus officinalis L.) en Chile. Los coeficientes técnicos fueron tomados de los registros históricos de un predio localizado en la zona de Linares, Región del Maule, Chile. Los indicadores de viabilidad calculados fueron el valor actual neto (VAN), tasa interna de retorno (TIR), índice de valor actual neto (IVAN), razón beneficio-costo (RBC), y período de recuperación del capital (PRC). Los indicadores de eficiencia económica fueron el costo medio total (CMET), margen unitario ponderado (MUP) y la rentabilidad sobre capital (RSC). Como unidad de análisis se consideró una hectárea. Para productores con tierra, los resultados obtenidos en la situación estándar fueron: Ch$1,52 millones (VAN), 12,1% (TIR), 0,3 (IVAN), 1,1 (RBC) y 10 años (PRC). Para la etapa de producción se proyectó un CMET mínimo de Ch $317,8 kg-1, un MUP máximo de Ch$407 kg-1 y una RSC de 20,3%. La principal conclusión es que el cultivo de espárrago en la región del Maule, en Chile, es viable para los productores con tierra. Viability and economic efficiency indicators for asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) production in Chile were evaluated. Technical parameters were obtained from an historical farm located in Linares area, Maule Region, Chile. Viability was assessed by means of net present value (VAN), internal rate of return (TIR), net present value index (IVAN), cost-benefit ratio (RBC), and investment recovery period (PRC). Economic efficiency was assessed through production average cost (CMET), weighted unit margin (MUP), and return on equity (RSC). The analysis was based upon one hectare. Results for producers who own their land were US$ 2,529 ha-1 (VAN), 12.14% (TIR), 0.25 (IVAN), and 1.1 (RBC). The minimum CMET was estimated at US$ 0.53 kg-1 the maximum MUP at US$ 0.68 kg-1, and RSC until 20.3%. The main conclusion is that asparagus production in the Maule region, in Chile, is viable for producers who own their land.

En esta investigación se estimaron indicadores de viabilidad y de eficiencia económica de la producción de espárrago (Asparagus officinalis L.) en Chile. Los coeficientes técnicos fueron tomados de los registros históricos de un predio localizado en la zona de Linares, Región del Maule, Chile. Los indicadores de viabilidad calculados fueron el valor actual neto (VAN), tasa interna de retorno (TIR), índice de valor actual neto (IVAN), razón beneficio-costo (RBC), y período de recuperación del capital (PRC). Los indicadores de eficiencia económica fueron el costo medio total (CMET), margen unitario ponderado (MUP) y la rentabilidad sobre capital (RSC). Como unidad de análisis se consideró una hectárea. Para productores con tierra, los resultados obtenidos en la situación estándar fueron: Ch$1,52 millones (VAN), 12,1% (TIR), 0,3 (IVAN), 1,1 (RBC) y 10 años (PRC). Para la etapa de producción se proyectó un CMET mínimo de Ch $317,8 kg-1, un MUP máximo de Ch$407 kg-1 y una RSC de 20,3%. La principal conclusión es que el cultivo de espárrago en la región del Maule, en Chile, es viable para los productores con tierra.Viability and economic efficiency indicators for asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) production in Chile were evaluated. Technical parameters were obtained from an historical farm located in Linares area, Maule Region, Chile. Viability was assessed by means of net present value (VAN), internal rate of return (TIR), net present value index (IVAN), cost-benefit ratio (RBC), and investment recovery period (PRC). Economic efficiency was assessed through production average cost (CMET), weighted unit margin (MUP), and return on equity (RSC). The analysis was based upon one hectare. Results for producers who own their land were US$ 2,529 ha-1 (VAN), 12.14% (TIR), 0.25 (IVAN), and 1.1 (RBC). The minimum CMET was estimated at US$ 0.53 kg-1 the maximum MUP at US$ 0.68 kg-1, and RSC until 20.3%. The main conclusion is that asparagus production in the Maule region, in Chile, is viable for producers who own their land.

O objetivo principal deste trabalho foi determinar as variáveis que melhor explicam a variação entre indivíduos dentro da população de aspargos originária da cultivar Argenteüil e selecionar plantas superiores para compor novas populações. O ensaio, composto por 1280 plantas, foi instalado no campo experimental da Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias de la Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Santa Fe, Argentina, em 1996. Durante os anos de 1997 e 1998, foram avaliadas as variáveis: número de turiões por planta (TU); peso médio do turião (PM); diâmetro do turião (DI); produção total por planta (RE); produção comercial por planta (RM); número de dias para início da colheita (DAC); número de hastes por planta (NUTA); altura da haste principal (ALT) e peso fresco da massa verde (MASAV). De acordo com a análise de componentes principais, as variáveis RE, RM, PM, DI e TU, são responsáveis por 60% da variação existente dentro da população avaliada. A análise de agrupamento baseada nestas variáveis, permitiu a identificação de cinco grupos distintos para os dois sexos. Os grupos G5 de plantas estaminadas e G5 de plantas pistiladas (7,51% da população total) apresentaram as melhores características de RE e qualidade. Destes grupos, foram selecionadas 6 plantas estaminadas e 8 plantas pistiladas para serem utilizadas como genitores no programa de melhoramento de aspargos.The principal aim of this experiment was to ascertain what the variables are which best explain the variations among individuals within the populations of asparagus which originates from the cultivar Argenteüil and as a result select better plants to form new populations. The test, using 1,280 plants, was carried out at he experimental farm in the Facultad Ciencias Agrarias de la Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Santa Fé, Argentina, in 1996. During 1997 and 1998 the number of spears per plant (TU), the mean weight of spears (PM), mean diameter of spears (DI) total yield (RE), marketable yield (RM), days to first harvest (DAC), number of stalks (NUTA), plant height (ALT) and fresh weight of the fern (MASAV) were measured. According to an analysis of the principal components, the variables RE, RM, PM, DI and TU were responsible for 60% of the variation that exists within the population evaluated.

Bu çalışmanın amacı; kuşkonmaz (Asparagus officinalis L.)'in fide kalitesini arttırmaya yönelik en uygun harç karışımı ve fide saksısı ebatlarını tespir edebilmektir. Deneme ADÜ, Ziraat Fakültesi Bahçe Bitkileri Bölümü deneme arazisinde ve laboratuarlarında yürütülmüştür. Marry Washington kuşkonmaz çeşidi kullanılmıştır. Torf, perlit, çiftlik gübresi, kum ve bahçe toprağı gibi ortamların 1:1:1 oranında hazırlanan kombinasyonlarının ve üç farklı boydaki saksıların (7.5x9.0cm, 6.5x7.0cm ve 4.5x5.0cm ) fide kalitesine etkisi incelenmiştir. Gövde boyu, kök boyu, gövde yaş ve kuru ağırlığı, kök yaş ve kuru ağırlığı, dal sayısı ve gövde çapı gibi karakterlerin parametre olarak kullanıldığı denemelerde yetiştirme ortamı olarak `Çiftlik gübresi - Perlit - Bahçe toprağı` nın 1:1:1 oranında karıştırılmasıyla hazırlanan harç karışımı en iyi sonucu vermiştir. Fide saksısı olarak ise büyük boy fide saksısından (7.5x9.0cm) en iyi sonuç elde edilmiştir. Tohumlarda çimlenme konusunda ön uygulama olarak yapılan suda bekletme uygulamalarından en iyi sonucu 48h suda bekletme uygulaması vermiştir. The aim of this study is to find out the most suitable growing medium and seedling pot size to improve seedling quality of asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.).The field trial was established in the experimental field and laboratory of the Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Adnan Menderes University, Aydın. Marry Washington asparagus cultivar was used fort the experiment. Some combinations of turba, perlite, farm manure, sand and garden soil (with 1:1:1 ratio) were used as growing medium to determine the effect of growing media on seedling quality. And three different pot sizes (7.5x9.0cm, 6.5x7.0cm ve 4.5x5.0cm) also used to determine the effect of pot size on on seedling quality. Stem length, root length, stem fresh and dry weight, root fresh and dry weight, number of branches and stem diameter were measured. According to the result, the medium with 1:1:1 ratio of Farm manure – Perlite – Garden soil gave the best result. The big pot size with 7.5x9.0cm was the best pot size. Pre-soaking in tap water for 48h treatment gave the highest germination ratio. 66

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar uma coleção de cultivares e híbridos de aspargo (Asparagus officinalis L.), quanto à produtividade e adaptabilidade às condições do Submédio São Francisco. A avaliação foi realizada no Campo Experimental de Bebedouro (Embrapa Semi-Árido), em Petrolina - PE, durante o período de 1991 a 1994. A coleção, constituída por duas cultivares e doze híbridos provenientes de Pelotas - RS, dez híbridos da França e três híbridos dos Estados Unidos, foi implantada em 15 de agosto de 1990. Na avaliação da produtividade, considerou-se apenas os turiões brancos, retos, sem manchas ou lesões, com diâmetro acima de 8 mm e comprimento variando de 15 a 20 cm. A produtividade média por genótipo durante o período de 1991 a 1994 variou de 1,74 a 6,33 t. ha-1. O ano de 1992 destacou-se com a maior produtividade média (4,46 t. ha-1). Os híbridos de origem francesa apresentaram uma acentuada mortalidade de plantas, indicando uma provável inadaptação às condições da região. Os híbridos W 12 x 14, G 4 x 14 e G 103 x 14, procedentes de Pelotas, destacaram-se com produtividades médias superiores a 4,40 t. ha-1. A cultivar New Jersey 220 apresentou o melhor desempenho, com 3,69 t. ha-1. Estes dados indicam o aspargo como uma boa alternativa agrícola para os perímetros irrigados da região Nordeste do Brasil, oferecendo, inclusive, condições de a região competir nos mercados interno e externo.The objectives of this study were to evaluate genotypes of asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.), in terms of yield and adaptation to conditions of the Submédio São Francisco region. The research was conducted between 1991 and 1994 at the Bebedouro Experimental Station of Embrapa Semi-Árido, in Petrolina, Pernambuco State. Two standard cultivars and twelve Brazilian hybrids (Pelotas and Rio Grande do Sul), ten French hybrids, and three hybrids from the United States were tested. Only straight spears, without stains or lesions, and diameter above eight mm and length varying from 15 to 20 cm, were considered for determining yield. The mean annual productivity per genotype varied from l.74 to 6.33 t. ha-1 during the period 1991 to 1994. In 1992 the highest performance was observed, with a productivity of 4.46 t. ha-1. The hybrids from France presented an accentuated mortality, indicating a probable lack of adaptation to the local conditions. The hybrids W 12 x 14, G 4 x 14 and G 103 x 14, from Pelotas, yielded above 4.40 t. ha-1. The variety New Jersey 220 showed the best performance, with 3.69 t. ha-1. These data indicate that asparagus cropping is a good alternative for the irrigation projects in the Brazilian Northeast, offering conditions for competition in internal and external markets.

Im Spargelanbau wird zunehmend von Braunverfärbungen berichtet, deren Ursache bisher nicht vollständig geklärt ist. Dagegen ist eine allgemein starke Belastung von Spargelanlagen mit Fusarium spp. und verschiedenen Viren, insbesondere dem Asparagus virus 1 (AV-1) bekannt. Ziel der Studie war es, aktuelle Informationen zum Auftreten von Braunverfärbungen sowie zur Befallssituation mit Fusarium spp. und Viren in kommerziell genutzten Spargel­anlagen Sachsen-Anhalts zu erhalten. Insgesamt wurden 429 Spargelstangen aus 14 verschiedenen Betrieben, 27 Anlagen und 7 Sorten untersucht. 60,4% der Stangen zeigten Symptome von Braunverfärbung, bei 28,4% der Proben konnte nach In-vitro-Inkubation Fusarium spp. nachgewiesen werden. ELISA-Untersuchungen zeigten in 92,8% der Stangen AV-1, in 31,9% das Asparagus virus 2 (AV-2) und in 84,6% der Proben das Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV). Das Arabis mosaic virus (ArMV) war lediglich in 3,5% der Proben nachweisbar, während das Tobacco streak virus (TSV) in keiner Probe gefunden wurde. Lediglich 2 Proben (0,5%) waren virusfrei. Befallsunterschiede waren zwischen den Spargelanlagen feststellbar, nicht aber zwischen den Sorten. Mögliche Zusammenhänge zwischen den verschiedenen untersuchten Krankheiten werden diskutiert., Journal für Kulturpflanzen, Vol. 65 No. 2 (2013)

Mladi izboji šparoge sezonsko su dijetalno povrće izraženog antioksidativnog i antikancerogenog djelovanja koje se u priobalnom području bere u travnju i svibnju, a u kontinentalnom tijekom svibnja i lipnja. U Europi se više cijeni bijela šparoga, iako zelena ima veću hranidbenu i zdravstvenu vrijednost. Zelena šparoga je bogat izvor spojeva antioksidativnih svojstava kao što su rutin, askorbinska kiselina, tokoferol, glutation i flavonoidi. Samonikla šparoga (Asparagus acutifolius) raširena je u području Mediterana, a izdvaja se većim vrijednostima proteina, lipida, fenola i askorbinske kiseline od kultivirane šparoge. Sadržaj proteina u izbojima kultivirane šparoge može varirati od 2, 2 do 3, 2 %, a od aminokiselina u najvećoj je mjeri zastupljen asparagin, dok je udio ugljikohidrata oko 4 %. U izbojima šparoge najzastupljeniji mineral je kalij (271 do 302 mg/100 g svježe tvari), a zelena šparoga ima i relativno veliku količinu fosfora u usporedbi s ostalim povrćem. Mineralni sastav ovisi i o dijelu izboja te je najveća koncentracija mineralau vrhu izboja. Šparoga kao dijetalno proljetno povrće pomaže u čišćenju organizma od toksina nakupljenih tijekom zimskih mjeseci, zahtjevna je vrsta s velikim utroškom ljudskog rada i malim prinosom pa je i cijena značajno veća u odnosu na jednogodišnje povrtne vrste koje su uglavnom prisutne na tržištu. Na tržištu je sve veća potražnja za šparogom zbog njezine hranidbene vrijednosti i povoljnog učinka na ljudsko zdravlje.

A three-year study (2007-2009) was carried out on green asparagus under tunnel in Campania (southern Italy) with the purpose of verifying both the possibility to practise organic management and annual double harvest in order to extend the eco-compatible production period and to avoid expensive imports. Comparisons among eight experimental treatments were made. Treatments were obtained by factorial combination of two crop methods (conventional and organic) and four spring and summer harvest periods of 90-day total duration (75 days in spring plus 15 in summer; 60 days in spring plus 30 in summer; 45 days in spring plus 45 in summer; as a control, 90 days in spring), arranging a split plot design with three replicates. The conventional management led to the highest yield, as a consequence of the higher spear number per plant, while the organic management resulted in both spear calibre and mean weight increase. Organic spears showed a higher level of residues and sugars but a lower content of nitrate and fibre. The treatment with 75-day harvest in spring and 15 in summer proved the best double harvest combination, leading to the highest comprehensive yield (11.5 t·ha-1), not different from the control harvested only in spring for 90 days. Summer spears showed higher values of optical residue, glucose, fructose, vitamin C and some mineral nutrients; instead, spring spears attained lower nitrate and average fibre content. Asparagus annual double harvest revealed economically interesting results, but the profits are strictly related to the prices of summer spears, which were evidently higher in summer than in spring in the three years of research., Advances in Horticultural Science, Vol 26 No 2 (2012)

La densidad y tamaño de plántulas con cepellón en la producción de espárrago verde. Con el objetivo de determinar la influencia del tamaño de la celda utilizada para la obtención de plántulas de espárrago y la densidad o marco de plantación empleado, sobre la producción de turiones, se evaluó en invernadero tres tamaños de celda: 1) PG: grande (70 cm³), 2) PM: mediana (30 cm³) y 3) PCh: pequeña (20 cm³) y tres densidades (35 714 (D1); 23 810 (D2) y 17 857 (D3) plantas/ha). Se efectuó un trabajo en la Chacra Experimental de la Facultad de Agronomía, en Azul, provincia de Buenos Aires. La plantación en el campo se efectuó en noviembre 2002, setenta días después de la siembra del almácigo con plántulas con cepellón. La cosecha se realizó del 25/09 al 18/10 del año 2006, en el cuarto año desde la plantación, con una frecuencia de cosecha de día por medio. Se realizó un análisis de la varianza, con un diseño completamente al azar y considerando como factor: el tamaño de las plántulas que provenían de cada contenedor y tres densidades. En el segundo año evaluado, la densidad D1 fue la de mayor producción (4450 kg/ha netos totales) y mayor cantidad de turiones (380 166). Las plantas provenientes de los dos mayores tamaños de celda produjeron 4 t/ha netas en promedio. Las bandejas de siembra de tamaño G y D1 resultaron más apropiados para la producción de espárrago ya que permitieron obtener el mayor rendimiento en peso y número, y obtener un mejor aparato radical. Density and size of seedlings with ball of soil on production of green asparagus crops. In order to evaluate the effect of transplanting greenhouse- grown seedlings with a ball of soil in three cell sizes: 1) PG: big (70 cm³); 2) PM: medium (30 cm³) and 3) PCH: small (20 cm³) and three densities: 35 714 (D1); 23 810 (D2) and 17 857 (D3) pl/ha. The trial was carried out on the experimental unit of the Facultad de Agronomia in Azul, province of Buenos Aires. Field planting was done in November 2002, 70 days after the sowing of the nursery bed with seedlings with ball of soi. Harvest was carried out from 25/09 to 18/10, in the fourth year since planting with a harvesting frequency of every other day. An analysis of variance was performed with a completely randomized design, and considering the seedling size and the three densities as factors. The best density in the second year of evaluation was D1 (4450 kg/ha net totals and 380 166 turions). The plants from the two bigger cell sizes produced 4 t/ha, on average. Sowing trays G and D1 were more appropriate for the production of asparagus since they corresponded to the greatest yield in weight and number, and a better root system, essential in a perennial crop.

In order to evaluate the effect of transplanting greenhouse-grown seedlings witha ball of soil in three cell sizes: 1) PG: big (70 cm3); 2) PM:medium (30 cm3) and 3) PCH: small (20 cm3) and three densities: 35 714 (D1); 23 810 (D2) and 17 857 (D3) pl/ha.The trial was carried out on the experimental unit of the Facultad de Agronomia in Azul, province of Buenos Aires. Field planting was done in November 2002, 70 days after the sowing of the nursery bed with seedlings with ball of soi. Harvest was carried out from 25/09 to 18/10, in the fourth year since planting with a harvesting frequency of every other day. An analysis of variance was performed with a completely randomized design, and considering the seedling size and the three densities as factors. The best density in the second year of evaluation was D1 (4450 kg/ha net totals and 380 166 turions). The plants from the two bigger cell sizes produced 4 t/ha, on average. Sowing trays G and D1 were more appropriate for the production of asparagus since they corresponded to the greatest yield in weight and number, and a better root system, essential in a perennial crop Con el objetivo de determinar la influencia del tamaño de la celda utilizada para la obtención de plántulas de espárrago y la densidad o marco de plantación empleado, sobre la producción de turiones, se evaluó en invernadero tres tamaños de celda: 1) PG: grande(70 cm3), 2) PM: mediana (30 cm3) y 3) PCh: pequeña (20cm3) y tres densidades (35 714 (D1); 23 810 (D2) y 17 857(D3) plantas/ha). Se efectuó un trabajo en la Chacra Experimental de la Facultad de Agronomía, en Azul, provincia de Buenos Aires. La plantación en el campo se efectuó en noviembre 2002, setenta días después de la siembra del almácigo con plántulas con cepellón. La cosecha se realizó del 25/09 al 18/10 del año 2006, en el cuarto año desde la plantación, con una frecuencia de cosecha de día por medio.Se realizó un análisis de la varianza, con un diseño completamente al azar y considerando como factor: el tamañode las plántulas que provenían de cada contenedor y tres densidades. En el segundo año evaluado, la densidad D1 fuela de mayor producción (4450 kg/ha netos totales) y mayor cantidad de turiones (380 166). Las plantas provenientes de los dos mayores tamaños de celda produjeron 4 t/ha netasen promedio. Las bandejas de siembra de tamaño G y D1 resultaron más apropiados para la producción de espárrago ya que permitieron obtener el mayor rendimiento en peso y número, y obtener un mejor aparato radical.

3 pages; 1 table: 1 figure, Asparagus crown and root rot caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. asparagi (Foa), F. proliferatum (Fp) and F. solani (Fs) result in early decline and loss of crop production. The role of several crop species on the survival of the Fusarium spp. was investigated. The root symptoms and plant weight of seven crop species were evaluated after inoculation with each of the three Fusarium spp. The number of colony-forming units of the Fusarium spp. from root tissues was also determined. Garlic was shown to be a symptomatic host for Foa, Fp and Fs; Fs was also pathogenic to onion. Root colonization of garlic, onion, maize, wheat, potato and sunflower suggested that they are reservoirs of Foa, Fp and Fs from asparagus and demonstrated the importance of crop rotation on the development of this asparagus disease., ERDF through the Research Project RTA2006-00045 (National Institute for Agricultural Research)

Adequate winter hardiness is critical for persistence and yield of ' Asparagus officinalis' L. cultivars in Southern Ontario, Canada, and may be influenced by fall senescence. Cultivar 'Guelph Millennium' (GM) turns yellow by mid-October prior to 'Jersey Giant' (JG), which will often 'freeze green'. Field and growth chamber experiments were conducted to understand the relationship between fall senescence and freezing tolerance. Shortened photoperiod and night temperatures below 10°C resulted in a significant increase in freezing tolerance and metabolites, and decreased percent water and chlorophyll concentration. Chlorophyll concentration declined and crown protein and proline concentrations increased earlier for field acclimated GM than for JG. The two cultivars did not have significantly different LT 50 values when field acclimated. However, after sub-freezing acclimation GM seedlings showed significantly higher freezing tolerance than JG. Tolerance to these imposed freeze-thaw events and timely senescence could enhance winter hardiness of asparagus.

Summary This study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant properties, including phenolics, ascorbic acid and carotenoids of four green asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) spears cultivars (UC 157, AM 822, Gijnlim, and Grande) grown under greenhouse conditions and to asses their changes during cooking process. The highest spear production of category ‘extra’ and ‘first’ was recorded on ‘UC 157’, whereas the higher production of “second” class spears was recorded on ‘UC 157’ and ‘Gijnlim’. The Grande cultivar has provided a higher total phenol, quercetin, rutin and lutein + zeaxantin contents in comparison to ‘UC 157’, ‘Gjinlim’ and ‘AM 822’ cultivars. The results also indicate that the effect of cooking process was significant and more pronounced than the effect of cultivars. The cooking process increased the antioxidant activity, total phenols, quercetin, rutin, β-carotene and lutein + zeaxantin contents by, 16%, 23%, 98%, 32%, 24% and 25%, respectively, but decreased the total ascorbic acid content by 52%.