TESTS were conducted at the request of California asparagus growers and canners in 1964 to determine the effect of nonselective mechanical harvesting on white asparagus yields. The harvester used in those tests was similar to one built by Magnuson Engineers in 1951. This machine cuts all spears at a depth of 8 to 9 inches, separates them from most of the dirt and trash, and discharges them onto the top of the asparagus bed. Results from the 1964 tests have been reported. In the 1965 tests reported here, additional comparative-yield tests were undertaken along with the construction and further development of a second harvester, a preliminary study of methods of handling and sorting mechanically harvested asparagus, and investigation of the effects of sprinkler irrigation on peat soil structure, wind erosion, and dust.

Yield tests were conducted in fields owned by the M & T Company (Clair Davis, field manager) and Western California Canners, Inc. (Buzz Walker, field manager). The experimental fruit washer and sorter were provided by the Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California, Davis, and were set up at K. R. Nutting Co., Holt.

Assisting in the tests were R. E. Cowden and D. C. Hudson, Department of Agricultural Engineering; J. P. Underhill, Farm Advisor, San Joaquin County; and industry representatives.