Rebound in Mexican Asparagus Forecast

WASHINGTON - Jun 16/06 - SNS -- Asparagus production in Mexico is expected to jump 12% this year to a forecast 53,000 metric tons (MT) because of favorable weather and more sophisticated growing techniques.

The U.S., agricultural attache for the country says one of the biggest changes is more efficient use of water resources, necessitated by the rapidly depleting aquifers in the main growing regions, and the use of improved seeds.

Last year's harvest is now pegged at 47,145 MT, well below initial estimates because of winter hails, low temperatures, and excessive rains in parts of Sonora (Northern Caborca), Baja California, and Guanajuato, in addition to limited water availability in other production regions.

Even though this crop provides considerable economic benefit to the Caborca region, 2006 area planted in the State of Sonora is not expected to increase, mainly due to the depletion of aquifers and the unavailability of producer credit.

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