What does the new Genius variety of white asparagus have to offer? by FreshPlaza
Bejo France at the International Asparagus Days
What does the new Genius variety of white asparagus have to offer?
Among the professionals present at the International Asparagus Days (IAD) and International Berry Days (IBD) trade fairs, vegetable seed specialist Bejo – Silver sponsor of the event – presented a new variety of white asparagus called Genius. This variety is part of the “new generation of asparagus,” adding to an already extensive range of white asparagus that arrive more or less early depending on the region.
Designed for the semi-early segment, Genius F1 is a 100% male seasonal variety, with the particularity of being very vigorous while offering excellent yield quality. Its robust plant structure makes it resistant to leaf diseases, rust, and hollow stems. Its strong, dense foliage ensures sustained productivity over the years. Its shoots are smooth, uniform, thick, very white, and large, with tightly closed bracts. Not only does this mean a better packing rate – essential for growers seeking optimum yields – but it also ensures superior quality on the fresh market. Asparagus can be grown both in the open field and in greenhouses. With an optimized planting density of 4 to 5 claws per meter, growers can maximize yields while maintaining excellent stem quality.
Feedback from growers and experts is already positive. “Previous trials have shown excellent yields and quality. The variety has a nice closed head structure and has proved its resistance to leaf diseases over the years. We are convinced that Genius will set a new quality standard for white asparagus cultivation in northwestern Europe,” explains Gerhard Völkel, head of crops at Bejo.
After more than a decade of development and large-scale trials in the Netherlands, Germany, and France, Genius is now commercially available for the 2025 season.
For more information:
Yannick Chevray
Bejo France
“Beauchêne”
49250 Beaufort en Vallée
Phone: +33 (0) 2 41 57 64 75
Mobile: +33 (0) 6 07 95 44 95
y.chevray@bejo.fr
www.bejo.fr Publication date: Mon 20 Oct 2025
