I have lost a few in the past do to mole damage. They borrow underground and eat the crown over winter. If the area is sunk in, you know it's moles. This is why I cut it down in fall so there isn't any cover for them. Also keep the annual grass out it a tracts moles (cover and seed to eat) I spray with poast in august if I got grass in it.
had the same on mine after 3" of rain last fri. didn't show up on saturday picking but by sun it was there.we just eat or feeze what isn't nice enough to sell.
i just snap mine off at ground level.things iv'e read(on the internet,just kidding) about cutting say that some dieseases can be spread from plant to plant using a knife.
looks like quadris and bravo are labeled for purple spot down here.
That little pruner really works good. I'm not so afraid to have someone help me pick with that, they really can't damage other spears. With the other tool you have to hit the ground and can damage other spears. And it takes more effort and the Spears get dirtier. Also you can buy new blades and other parts for it. It cuts through em like a razor blade.
