In a recent project, large-scale plant losses in asparagus production raised urgent questions. Symptoms included shortened and fibrous root crowns, cracked and discolored roots, unpleasant odors, and disrupted stem growth. Lab analysis revealed heavy infections with Fusarium oxysporum and Cylindrocarpon didymum. Although Phytophthora was tested, it was not detected. The strong odor suggested a secondary Erwinia infection.
A structured risk assessment was key to moving beyond symptoms and lab results. During the sessions, we traced the most likely origin of the widespread issue back to a practice a few years earlier: shredding crop residues on the windward side of the growing area. This led to contaminated dust entering the basins and irrigation system. While disinfection systems were in place, no method is 100% effective, especially when particle loads are high and water turbidity reduces efficacy. This provided a pathway for infection across the entire facility.
The assessment also highlighted contributing factors:
- Prohibition of certain chemical seed treatments, leaving only water-dipping as a preventive step.
- Movement of plants between plots, increasing cross-contamination risk.
- An existing background level of infection, amplifying new outbreaks.
With this understanding, we designed a multi-step plan of action:
- Knowledge transfer on pathogen lifecycles and symptom recognition.
- Trials combining nutrition strategies with biological controls (“measure to manage”).
- Revision of hygiene protocols, co-created with cultivation staff for ownership.
- Optimized plant flow to protect young seedlings.
- Field sanitation and soil reset trials.
- Treatment strategies for new plants entering production.
- Ongoing training in pathogen identification, supported by lab analysis.
Next to tackling the plant health issues, fertilization practices were also adjusted to better support root health and resilience. The results spoke for themselves: already in the first year after implementation, 80% fewer issues were recorded.
The outcome of this process was not only the identification of the likely cause but also a clear pathway to reduce risks and prevent recurrence. By combining scientific analysis with practical on-site risk assessment, it became possible to transform a widespread challenge into a structured recovery plan.