How Do You Plant Asparagus Roots?

Asparagus is a vegetable that is not only delicious but also healthy. It is low in calories and a good source of nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. Asparagus is easy to grow and can be started from seed, but it may take up to 3 years for the plant to produce a full harvest. One way to speed up the process is to plant asparagus roots. Here is a guide on how to plant asparagus roots.

Preparing the Soil

The first thing you need to do when planting asparagus roots is to prepare the soil. Asparagus loves well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is recommended that you prepare the soil in the fall. Start by removing any rocks, debris, and weeds from the area. Till the soil to a depth of at least 12 inches. If the soil is heavy, add sand or perlite to improve drainage. Finally, add a layer of compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.

Planting Asparagus Roots

Once the soil is prepared, you can start planting the asparagus roots. The optimum time to plant asparagus is in early spring when the soil is about 50掳F. Start by digging a trench that is about 6 inches deep and 12 inches wide. Place the asparagus roots in the trench about 18 inches apart. Cover the roots with about 2 inches of soil. As the plants grow, you can gradually fill in the trench until it is level with the soil surface.

Watering and Fertilizing

Water the newly planted asparagus roots thoroughly. Asparagus needs consistent moisture, especially during the first growing season. Keep the soil moist, but not wet. Once the plants have established, you can reduce the watering frequency but water deeply to encourage deep roots.

Asparagus is a heavy feeder, so it is important to fertilize it regularly. Apply a balanced fertilizer or a fertilizer specifically designed for asparagus according to the manufacturer's instructions. Apply the fertilizer in the spring when the shoots first appear and again after you harvest the spears.

Harvesting Asparagus

You can start harvesting asparagus when the spears are about 6-8 inches tall. Cut the spears with a sharp knife or scissors just below the soil level. Be sure not to damage the developing buds below the soil. Continue to harvest the spears for up to 8 weeks, or until they become thin and spindly.

In conclusion, planting asparagus roots is an excellent way to grow this delicious and nutritious vegetable in your garden. With a little bit of preparation, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of asparagus for years to come. Remember to prepare the soil, plant the roots, water and fertilize the plants regularly, and harvest the spears at the right time. Happy gardening!