How to Grow Asparagus Plants
Asparagus is grown for the immature, tender shoot or spear (or stalk). It
is harvested early in the spring. As a matter of fact, it is the first vegetable
of spring. Asparagus is a perennial plant which multiplies readily through
it's root system. It will thrive for many years with little care. It grows
well in areas that do not have a mild winter.
Asparagus shoots are a tender and mild tasting vegetable, that can be eaten
raw or cooked. It is most often steamed. It is a real delicacy among the
vegetable world. It is only harvested from early to late spring. As June
arrives, the stalks should be allowed to grow, to allow the development of
the root system for future crops. The leaves will eventually open to a fern
like plant. While most of us plant Asparagus roots, the plant does produce
seeds.
Did You Know? Asparagus is one of just two perennial vegetables, that
lives for several years. The other is Rhubarb.
Varieties:
There are few varieties of Asparagus. Martha Washington is the most common.
Robert's Strain and Jersey Knight are also common.
Growing and Caring for Asparagus Plants:
Asparagus is planted by roots or seed. Starting Asparagus plants from seed,
takes longer to develop. Most growers buy and plant the roots. Asparagus
likes loose and slightly sandy soil, that is rich in organic material. The
soil should drain well. While they will grow in clay, it is harder for them
to spread their roots and push the tender stalks out of the soil. Roots planted
this year require one or two years to develop enough stalks to harvest, without
seriously affecting future production.
Asparagus likes full sun in well drained soil. Ideal pH is 6.0 to 8.0.
Did you Know? A number of publications recommend sprinkling salt around
the plants to promote their growth. There is no known benefit of adding salt.
Insects and Pests:
Asparagus is susceptible to a variety of pests, typical of any tender plant
in your garden. These include Aphids, Asparagus Beetles, and Cutworms. Insect
problems most frequently occur after the spring harvest. Damage by insects
can weaken or kill the plant. The plant needs a strong growing season to
promote healthy root growth for next years' crop.
Disease:
There are few diseases that affect Asparagus early in the spring. Asparagus
is susceptible to root rot, especially in wet soils. Rust diseases can also
affect it.
Harvesting:
Cut young shoots off with a sharp knife, just below the surface of the soil.
They should be picked when they are several inches long, and the stalk is
still tender. You can cut all stalks that appear for about two to three weeks.
After this time, the plant needs to be allowed to grow.
Did you Know? Asparagus is commonly found along roadsides in rural
areas, especially near old, abandoned farmland. You can harvest them along
the side of the road in the spring, if you know where to look.
Hardiness:
Asparagus spears are the first vegetable you harvest in the spring. But,
Asparagus shoots can be damaged by frosts and freezes, causing the tender
stalks to turn black or die off. If a hard frost is expected, cover the stalks
to protect the spears. As a perennial, it will last indefinitely, with a
little care and feeding.
More Information:
Did you Know? There is a National Festival for Asparagus! Oceana County,
Michigan has laid claim as the Asparagus Capital of the United States.
Buy
Asparagus Roots - choose from "Robert's Strain" and "Jersey Knight". |
