How to Successfully Grow Asparagus

Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that is a low calorie and low-fat source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. Growing asparagus can be a great way to enjoy fresh produce in your own backyard. Here are some tips on how to successfully grow asparagus.

Preparing for Asparagus Planting

Before planting asparagus, it is important to choose the right location. Find a spot with a lot of sun that is well-drained and has loose soil. Clear the area of any debris, including rocks and roots, and use a garden fork to loosen the soil.

Planting Asparagus Crowns

Asparagus is usually grown from crowns, small roots that are dormant in winter and then bloom in spring. Plant the crowns, which you can get from your local nursery, in the loosened soil about 6 to 8 inches deep and 12 to 18 inches apart. Cover them with soil and compact it just enough to get rid of air pockets.

Watering and Fertilizing Asparagus

Once planted, the asparagus needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. Make sure not to overwater, as asparagus does not like waterlogged soil. Use a dry fertilizer, such as a balanced 10-10-10 or 13-13-13, just before planting to get your plants off to a good start. After that, you can add fertilizer once or twice per year, ideally in early spring and early summer.

Mulching and Weeding

Mulching is important to keep weeds away and preserve moisture. Use a 2-inch layer of mulch, such as straw, leaves, or grass clippings, after the plants have appeared. Be careful not to cover the plants themselves, especially before they have emerged.

Asparagus should be weeded regularly to prevent competition for soil nutrients and water. Weeds can be removed by hand or with a hoe or cultivator. Avoid using herbicides, as asparagus is very sensitive to chemicals and can be damaged easily.

Harvesting and Care of Old Asparagus Bed

Asparagus beds can take up to three years to be established, so in the meantime, it is important to be patient and allow the plant to grow. After the third year, you can start harvesting your asparagus in the spring, usually as soon as the soil has warmed up. Harvest by cutting the stems just below the ground using a sharp knife.

Asparagus plants can be productive for 10 years or more, but it is recommended to replace them after that time. The old bed should be cleaned and amended to provide better soil for the next crop.

Conclusion

Growing asparagus can be a fun and rewarding experience. With the right preparation and care, you can enjoy fresh, delicious asparagus in your own backyard for many years to come. Remember to choose the right location, plant properly, water and fertilize correctly, mulch and weed regularly, and harvest at the right time. Enjoy!