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Even a small asparagus bed is a worthwhile investment, it will reward you with succulent spears for up to 20 years. It is also much easier to plant and grow than many people think! Full planting and care instructions are included with every order. Despatch from late March 2020.
Our new range consists of modern F1 hybrids which are tried and tested and well suited to our UK climate as well as all having excellent disease resistance. We supply freshly harvested large A grade crowns, larger than the commonly sold smaller grade. A good crown and a well developed root system is important for future success.
Spring planting of asparagus is much more beneficial to the plant and future cropping than in the autumn and we now only recommend planting at this time. During the summer the fern collects nutrients, as this dies in the autumn the stored nutrients go down into the crown, making it larger and full of energy in readiness for the spring. By disturbing this process and lifting and replanting in the autumn, you effectively destroy this process and in the spring the crown needs to start collecting nutrients again, therefore causing growth that will be thin and weak.
Asparagus is the most drought-tolerant of all vegetables, but it does not thrive in waterlogged soils. Reassuringly, it is virtually pest-free. ‘Weed and greed’ are its too main enemies. Root care is particularly important, so weed asparagus by hand rather than with a hoe. Best results are achieved from planting one-year-old crowns, but do not be greedy and cut spears produced in the year after planting. Let the crowns develop a strong root system. The following year, cut for two weeks and from then on it should be in full production for up to eight weeks annually. Harvesting after midsummer shortens the life of crowns. Traditional wisdom tells us cut an inch or two below soil level, but this can cause serious damage. It is much better to cut spears at ground level.
As asparagus is a long-term crop, it is important to choose a good site. The best soil is a deep and well-drained one; coarse, sandy soils will give better results than heavy ones. The soil pH should be 6.5 or above. The incorporation of plenty of well-rotted organic matter is good, especially on lighter soils.
