Cerescon presents 1-row self-propelled Sparter at Expo SE 2019

The Dutch high-tech scale-up Cerescon presents its latest product portfolio expansion during the Expo SE 2019 on November 20 and 21, 2019. This asparagus harvesting machine is a 1-row self-propelled version of Sparter and does not require a tractor or driver for harvesting.

Two years ago, Cerescon introduced the first selective asparagus harvesting machine for white asparagus. The 2-row and 3-row variant are suitable for harvesting up to 35 and 50 hectares respectively. As these Sparters are especially attractive for large growers, Cerescon focuses with its new 1-row self-propelled harvesting machine not only on the large growers but also on the somewhat smaller growers. The 1-row Sparter can harvest around 0.3 hectares per hour.

1-row self-propelled Sparter With the new self-propelled Sparter, tractor and driver are not necessary anymore. The harvest costs per hour are reduced by up to 70% compared to manual harvesting. A big difference with the multi-row Sparter is that it is equipped with tracks and can drive autonomously through the rows. One person on the back of the machine is needed to collect the harvested asparagus in the crates.

Due to the compact dimensions, smaller fields can be harvested with less headland loss and the machine can be transported easily by road. The technology of the unique underground detection with integrated double cutting robot, sand bed repair, asparagus transport and plastic handling has been thoroughly tested in the past 3 seasons and has not changed.

Future plans

Cerescon will use the upcoming asparagus season to extensively demonstrate the new 1-row harvesting robot in various fields at home and abroad. In 2021 a number of copies from the 0 series must be active in practice. The new variant will cost around € 350,000 including the power supply. The sale of the Sparter starts in the Netherlands, Germany and France. Cerescon then expands to other European countries where white asparagus is harvested