Asparagus is a perennial crop grown for the shoots that sprout from the ground in spring and early summer. Once established and with proper care asparagus will produce for up to 30 years! These plants can be grown from seed, but they also will spread in the garden via their roots. So, make sure to plant them somewhere they can stretch out.
Asparagus Seed
$3.00
Description
Season: Cool season – hardy to zone 2 Exposure: Full sun
Maturity: When starting from seed the first crop can be harvested in year 3.
Starting Seeds: Germination (sprouting) of asparagus seed can be improved by either storing the seed in a freezer for a couple of weeks or soaking the seed in water for 24 hours prior to planting. Place one seed per 5x5cm pot 1cm deep. Warming the growing soil will also help germination and plant growth. Asparagus seeds prefer soil temperatures between 21 and 30°C. Seeds may take 2-8 weeks to sprout. When the plants are 10-12 weeks old transplant them into the garden.
Spacing: Allow for 45cm between each plant and 1m between rows in holes 10cm deep.
Fertilize: Apply compost to the garden bed every fall.
Watering: Requires 2cm of water per week roughly 1.8 liters per plant. Watering deeply (more water less often) is much better than frequent waterings (less water more often). This will help the plants to establish deeper roots.
Harvesting: You may begin harvesting the shoots in spring of the plants 3rd year. The first few years of harvests will last 2-3 weeks. Harvest the thickest shoots when they are between 15 and 20cm long. Leave thin shoots to grow into large fronds. As the plants mature the harvesting season will increase to between 6 and 8 weeks.
