Plant: Asparagus

Garden Prep Pointers: 

*Select full sun location to be dedicated to Asparagus for many years.

*Remove or kill sod in desired rows.

Planting Season:

*Crowns should be planted early-mid April through mid May.

*Beginning Gardeners should shy away from starting seeds.

Plant Selection Tips: 

*Plants should come dormant and bareroot, consisting of a "crown" and the root system

Planting Guide:

*Soak plants in water for 30-60 minutes before planting.

*Dig trench 1 row ft. of 8-10" deep trench per every crown you anticipate planting.

*Place each crown 12" apart in row and cover with 2-3 inches of soil.

*Crowns will emerge about 10 days later, cover with another 2-3" of soil, repeat process until trenches are filled in at ground level.

Planting Notes: 

*Spread roots out in circular pattern with crowns facing upwards (like an onion)

*Mix in 15-15-15 or organic fertilizer with fill-in soil.  Amount specified on package.

*Water trench thoroughly after planting

Upkeep:

*Make sure plants receive about 1" of water per week at least until trenches are filled in.

Fruiting Habits:

            *Plants will not be harvest able the first year.  Harvesting can occur the second year in early to mid April

            *20-30 plants will yield enough for a family of four.

            *Cut spears at ground when they reach 8-10 inches high for about 3 weeks.  After 3 weeks, let spears continue to grow into fronds.

Growers Favorite Varieties:

            *Green: Jersey Supreme

            *Purple: (cooks up green) Purple Passion

Grower Notes:

*Be sure to fertilize every August.  Asparagus, like strawberries build up energy for the following years harvest starting late Summer and early Fall.

*If the summer is very dry, be sure to water occasionally.

Fruits of Knowledge: 

*Asparagus will yield for over 25 years, it's a great investment, but be sure to plant it exactly where you want it as it's very hard to move later.