How to Care
Soil
Asparagus need free draining sandy loam for the most ideal growing. Good soil preparation is essential. Remove all perennial weeds from the soil and dig in peat/compost into clay soils to assist drainage.
To raise planting in heavy wet soils, the best methods are:
- Dig furrow 30cm wide, 20-25cm deep
- Work in General Garden Food, 100gm/m²
- Leave 1 metre between rows
- Plant crowns at 40cm spacings
- Cover with 5cm of soil
- Gradually fill in furrow as young spears appear
- Leave top of spear showing above soil
Varieties
Jersey Giant is an outstanding new American variety that produces large, juicy tender stems. It is easily grown and gives 3-4 times more production per plant.
Harvesting
Do not cut spears in the first 2 years of growth. Spears are 3cm below soil surface when 15-22cm long.
In third year cut spears over a 2 week period. Expand this out to a 10 week period in mid September to the end of November after about 5 years.
Plants go into a fern stage in early December on wards. As the fern turns yellow at the end of April, cut down and remove. Asparagus is a perennial and will last in the ground for up to 20 years.
Pests and Diseases
Asparagus is generally unaffected by many pests and diseases. They can sometimes be affected by slugs and snails and rust.
Pest and Disease Control
- Yates Slug Slam
- Yates Fungus Fighter
- Shield
