On a recent episode of Countryfile, presenter Adam Henson traveled to the Vale of Evesham to explore the intricacies of asparagus farming, a region celebrated for this distinctive crop. Accompanied by farm manager John Sampson, Adam delved into the careful methods required to harvest and plant asparagus successfully.
John introduced Adam to the reality of asparagus cultivation: “You only plant it once, and it’s there then for ten years plus, so the pressure to get that right at the start, to choose the right variety, to choose the right site and to get everything right in maybe a tricky spring, there’s a lot of pressure there.”
While attempting to harvest asparagus alongside experienced workers, Adam quickly realized the demanding pace. With a laugh, he admitted, “Quite a lot of pressure! It’s hard, isn’t it?” John didn’t mince words, telling Adam, “Yeah, it is, and you’ll also notice we’re slacking behind the rest of the team, Adam.” Adam responded with humor, “Oh yeah! That was a polite way of saying get your derriere in gear.”
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Later, Adam joined John in the planting fields where crowns that will produce harvests for the next 12 years were being set. Learning that each crown costs 40p – amounting to about £10,000 per hectare – highlighted the financial risks involved. Adam took the reins on a tractor, assisting with planting operations that require precision to protect the investment.
John advised, “There’s only so slow we can go, so you’re just going to have to keep up.” Adam joked back, “If I scream, you’re just going to have to stop!” As the machinery moved forward, Adam understood the importance of focus: missing one crown during planting could have serious consequences.
John teased, “We have actually slowed down at the moment, Adam, just for your benefit. I’m sure Kevin could knock us up a gear just to see how you get on.” But Adam soon gained confidence, asking for more speed as he mastered the technique.
Reflecting on his experience, Adam shared, “Although I’m a farmer and I do understand growing crops, this is the first time for me planting asparagus and finding out more about this extraordinary crop. It makes me appreciate it and have a better understanding of where this delicious vegetable comes from.”