Spared harvest 2025: Low yields, high prices - what is behind it?

Spared harvest 2025: Low yields, high prices - what is behind it?

Schelldorf, Deutschland - The asparagus season has again offered a lot of conversation in Germany, especially in Saxony-Anhalt. The asparagus farmers take a mixed balance on the courtyards around Stendal, because the yields were lower this year, while the quality of the popular vegetable classic is consistently good. As [MDR reports] (https://www.mdr.de/nachrichten/Sachsen-Anhalt/stendal/sspargel-erne-belanz-108~amp.html), the cool nights in April and May influence the growth of the so-called Königsgemüssen.

The last harvest took place on June 24th, St. John's Day. Arne Garlipp, who builds 65 hectares of asparagus in Schelldorf, confidently commented on the quality of the harvest 2025. But the rising personnel costs and the competition through favorable imports represent a challenge for the farmers. After all, customers were ready to pay one euro more per kilo after five years, which gives the producers some air.

harvest assistant and personal challenges

An essential topic is the availability of harvesters. Many asparagus farmers, including Axel Tinneberg from Meßdorf, have to deal with a lack of staff. Tinneberg reports on the sudden departure of five Romanian harvesters, which led to financial losses for his company. It is no wonder that Tinneberg is thinking about the purchase of an artery of asparagus-an investment of around 400,000 euros-to counter the uncertain personnel Situation.

The working conditions for harvest helpers are now a hotly discussed topic. According to the Tagesschau, around 250,000 seasonal workers from abroad are necessary to ensure the harvest. These come mainly from Romania and Moldova, many of them have been working in the industry for years. However, working conditions urgently need to be improved, as the pressure of "fair agriculture" shows. High rents and sometimes unacceptable living conditions make the situation unbearable for the seasonal workers.

prices and market analyzes

As far as prices are concerned, there is a regional gradient. In Brandenburg, the prices of 15 to 18 euros per kilo are relatively moderate compared to North Rhine-Westphalia (16 to 18 euros) and Munich, where they can even rise up to 34.90 euros per kilo. Ilios explains that the prices traditionally decrease during the season when the offer increases. But weather conditions and rising wages keep the farmers busy. In particular, pricing is influenced by love for sustainability and the increased desire for local products.

Despite all the challenges, the asparagus remains an estimated luxury vegetable in German cuisine. Consumers attach more importance to quality and origin, which benefits the local producers. While according to Garlipp, the acreage in Saxony-Anhalt is currently shrinking, it should be noted that the local asparagus records a strong demand. In the 2025 high season, a slight price decline due to the higher production is expected. Younger consumers in particular show great interest in regional asparagus, which gives a castle with regard to the future.

The season may be behind us, but the discussions about pricing, harvesting conditions and the work situation of the seasonal workers will certainly continue. The next year brings new challenges and opportunities for asparagus farmers in Saxony-Anhalt and beyond.