Phenological growth stages of edible asparagus (Asparagus officinalis): codification and description according to the BBCH scale

Abstract

BBCH [Biologische Bundesanstalt (Julius Kühn-Institut), Bundessortenamt, CHemische Industrie] scales are used in applied natural sciences for the description of phenological growth stages of plants and are available for many crops today. Currently, a specific BBCH scale for Asparagus officinalis, a perennial vegetable plant of worldwide interest, does not exist. In this study, an extended BBCH scale was developed, describing precisely the growth stages of A. officinalis. Nine principal growth stages were defined and subdivided into several secondary growth stages resulting in a two-digit decimal code. Detailed descriptions of the particular stages and illustrations were included to clarify the application of the code system. The scale is proposed to specify and harmonise research activities as well as to enhance comparability of crop management practices for growers of asparagus.

New phenological growth stages of garlic (Allium sativum)

“…In contrast to the majority of BBCH scales for species with distinct phases and secondary stages that are clearly recognisable and distinguishable (Feller et al , ), changes in the most important growth habits of garlic are hidden; it is necessary to open/dissect the clove to be used as a propagule for planting or the pseudo‐stem (group of sheaths enveloping the leaves that surround the apex and lateral shoot/inflorescence) of the plant during its development due to the fact that distancing is not produced between internodes in the true stem or disc (basal plate). Although this practice is not necessary or habitual for the majority of BBCH scales, it may be compared with scales for plants that require soil removal to detect certain phenological stages, as is the case with potatoes (Meier, ) or asparagus (Feller et al , ) among others. The proposed dissection methodology to reveal hidden stages is quick, simple and can be performed in situ (in the field or in storage area of bulbs for planting).…”

“…Knowledge of crop phenology constitutes a fundamental tool in the development of the agronomical sciences and related fields (Leather, ). Such knowledge provides substantial benefits during the management of agricultural systems, enabling the appropriate selection and optimal timing of certain practices, such as fertilisation or use of pesticides for controlling pests, diseases and weeds (Feller et al , ). Since 1992, the Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt and Chemische Industrie (BBCH) Scale work group has carried out an enormous effort to standardise, describe and compile the phenological growth phases of several cultivated crops and weed species.…”

“…This system has been subsequently improved upon inclusion of monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous species, allowing an easy comparison between species and their main phenological phases (Meier et al , ). The basic principle of the BBCH Scale, as described by Hack et al (Meier, ), consists of a decimal code that divides growth into principal (first digit) and secondary stages (second digit), although mesostages (centesimal code) may be introduced if necessary (Feller et al , ). Currently, these generalised scales have been successfully used worldwide and have formed an essential instrument for many activities related to the agricultural sector (for scientific and technical purposes; agricultural administration; use by official organisations and agricultural businesses for fertilisers, phytosanitary measures and plant breeding), thus allowing the exchange of data and objective information at the global level (Meier et al , ).…”

PP 1/290 (1) Weeds in asparagus

“…Information on the row width should also be given. Record the BBCHstage [Feller et al (2012)] at every treatment and assessment.…”

Foliage diseases of Asparagus officinalis

“…The BBCH growth stage (Feller et al ., ) of the crop at each date of application and assessment should be recorded. It may be useful to estimate the percentage canopy coverage of the soil.…”