Plant of the Month: Asparagus

Asparagus _iMarzi AdobeStock.jpeg

By Barbara Boone

One of the tastiest edibles around, asparagus requires a bit of patience before harvesting. About 3 years of patience, that is. Plant asparagus crowns in Spring about 12 inches apart in trenches about 12 inches wide in full sun in well-draining soil, making sure the pH is no lower than 6.2. If the pH is lower than 6.2, apply lime. Keep asparagus moist but not saturated, especially in the hottest months.

Inspect asparagus routinely for insect and disease damage. If necessary, apply insecticidal soap or Bt, or if fungal, apply a fungicide.

Begin harvest when spears are 5-7 inches tall until the 3rd or 4th year when the spears appear spindly. At that point, allow asparagus to generate ferns which will die back after the first frost.