Asparagus being hand harvested


Asparagus being ranched packed

 This history of asparagus goes back more than 2,000 years. Asparagus was first cultivated in the Eastern Mediterranean region. It was appreciated by both Greeks and Romans not only for its fine flavor and texture, but also its alleged medicinal qualities. It was not until the 1860’s that asparagus was first cultivated in California. The combination of the state’s moderate climate and fertile soils has made California an excellent growing area for asparagus. Today, California leads the nation in asparagus production. More then 50,000 metric tons are harvested annually.

Seventy-five percent of our asparagus are grown in the fertile peat soils of the San Joaquin Delta islands. After harvesting, our asparagus is rushed to our packing facility where they are sorted to meet the requirements of our customers. The asparagus are then hand-packed in specially constructed crates. They are then hydrocooled to between 34° and 37° F (1° and 3°C) to maintain optimum freshness.

Primavera also imports a substantial quantity of asparagus from Mexico and Peru. Our Mexican asparagus originates in the northern most state of Sonora. The Sonora Desert has light sandy soils and the perfect microclimate for asparagus in early January. Peruvian growers utilize farmland at various elevations and in different microclimates to provide American and Japanese markets with asparagus for seven months (June-December) of the year.

As a major exporter of asparagus, Primavera can selectively pack for Japanese or European markets either in cardboard, plastic or wood crates. All grades can be packed either loose or bunched.

The cornerstone of Primavera’s operation is, once again, a commitment to quality exports produce.