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How do I grow asparagus in my garden?
When to Plant Asparagus Soak seeds in water for up to 24 hours before sowing. Sow seeds in moistened peat or seed-starting soil in flats or peat cups. Once plants reach 12 inches in height, harden them off outdoors for a week. After the last spring frost, transplant the young plants to a temporary garden bed.
Where should I plant asparagus in my garden?
The best planting spot is sunny but sheltered (picture a garden patch protected by mature trees). Plants crowns so they leaves are clear of the soil. You can plant as soon as you can work the soil, but stay vigilant with the blankets in case of freak spring cold snaps. Make sure the soil drains well.
What is the best way to grow asparagus?
Asparagus does best in lighter soils that warm up quickly in spring and drain well; standing water will quickly rot the roots. Prepare a planting bed for your asparagus —simple raised beds work best — that’s about 4 feet wide by removing all perennial weeds and roots, and digging in aged manure or compost.
Is asparagus easy to grow?
Not only is it easy to grow and maintain but it’s a perennial crop as well. So with one year of planting, you can set yourself up for years and years of future harvests. In fact, a single planting of asparagus crowns can keep on producing for 20 years or more.
What month do you plant asparagus?
Plant asparagus in spring or fall in a sunny spot with nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. Asparagus takes a few seasons to mature but will reap a harvest for 15 to 30 years, so choose a planting location that will go undisturbed for a long time.
Can you plant asparagus in raised beds?
By planting the asparagus crowns in a raised bed with a soil mix that includes loamy, organic matter, you can ensure good drainage. Another reason to plant asparagus in a raised bed is because it is a perennial crop and can remain productive for 10 to 12 years.
Does asparagus multiply?
When asparagus plants are growing in a sunny site with good drainage, proper irrigation, and adequate nutrients, the plants multiply and become crowded over time. The ability of asparagus plants to multiply means that sharing the bounty is part of the fun of growing this perennial vegetable.
Do asparagus plants spread?
Because asparagus is a perennial, you’ll need to pick an out-of-the-way spot in the vegetable garden without competing plants. Asparagus also needs space, about 4 to 5 feet for each plant. They won’t spread out much the first couple of years, but once established they will quickly fill in.
How much asparagus do you get from one plant?
Each plant produces about 1/2 pound of asparagus spears each year, so plan on planting about five to 20 plants per person, advises the University of California.
Does asparagus like sun or shade?
Site – Full sun is ideal. Asparagus needs at least 8 hours of sun per day. Since asparagus is a long-lived perennial, do not plant where trees or tall shrubs might eventually shade the plants or compete for nutrients and water.
What can you not plant with asparagus?
There are two main crops to avoid growing alongside asparagus: Alliums. Alliums like leeks, garlic, and onion sharing the soil with asparagus are said to stunt its growth. Potatoes. Asparagus, on the other hand, stunts the growth of potatoes when they share the same space.
How many asparagus plants should I plant?
But, if space is not an issue, 10-20 plants per person is a good start. Since asparagus is a perennial crop, site selection is going to be important. It’s not uncommon for asparagus plantings to last for 15+ years. It does best in well-drained soils that are in full sun.
Can I plant asparagus from the grocery store?
Soak your asparagus crowns in warm or compost water for fifteen minutes and then plant them. The plants should be anchored in the trenches. Water it afterward.
Why does asparagus grow in ditches?
Wild asparagus generally grow in ditches or along fences, at least in Iowa where I grew up. Asparagus regularly grows in the ditch with weeds and bramble so it gets mixed in easily and makes it very hard to see, so be prepared for a true hunt!Mar 29, 2017.
How many times can you harvest asparagus?
Early in the season, you might harvest 7- to 9-inch spears every two to four days. As air temperatures increase, harvesting frequencies will increase to once or twice per day. You can have up to 24 harvests per season, after which you can allow crowns to fern and grow out.
How do you look after asparagus in the garden?
Asparagus needs regular watering, especially while young; give it 1 to 2 inches of water per week during its first two growing seasons; give older plants about 1 inch per week. If you give them a good start when you first plant them, and you’ll have fewer problems in future years.
