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Growing Conditions 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.
Where is the best place to plant asparagus?
First and foremost, asparagus needs to be planted with the sun in mind. Select an area receiving at least 8 hours of full sunlight each day. Although asparagus will tolerate partial shade, it will thrive in full sun. In addition to adequate sunlight, overall soil quality needs to be considered before planting as well.
What should not be planted near 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 big should an asparagus bed be?
Dig a trench 12 inches wide by 12 inches deep where the crowns are to be planted. Rows of asparagus should be at least 2 feet apart, allowing two rows to fit in a 4-foot wide bed.
Can asparagus handle shade?
Although asparagus favors a sandy loam soil, it is quite tolerant of all but the densest clays. Yields will be highest in full-sun sites, but asparagus plants will also tolerate partial shade. The optimum pH range for growing asparagus is between 6.5 to 7.0.
How often do you water asparagus?
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.
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.
Are coffee grounds good for asparagus?
Asparagus prefers a soil pH between 6.5 and 7, which is mildly acidic. Coffee grounds can run 5 or less on the pH scale by themselves. The grounds also add some nitrogen, which is a regular nutrition need of asparagus.
Can strawberries and asparagus be planted together?
Horseradish, rhubarb, asparagus and strawberries are good companions. In asparagus rows, dig a trench 1.5 feet deep and wide, mounding soil in a 6 inch high ridge down the middle. You can plant a companion bed of strawberries, asparagus, horseradish and rhubarb that will produce for generations.
What is a companion plant for asparagus?
Flowers that coexist well with asparagus include marigolds, nasturtiums, and members of the Aster family. The most interesting combination of companion plants for asparagus that I have read about was asparagus, strawberries, rhubarb, and horseradish.
Can I grow 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.
Can you plant asparagus too deep?
Cultivating too deep, or at the wrong time in the season, can damage the crowns and emerging spears. There are two times when asparagus beds can be cultivated: Before the spears come up in the spring, and after all of the spears are harvested but before ferns come up in late June.
What happens if you plant asparagus too close together?
If planted too close together, asparagus crowns will produce new stalks for only a few years. With enough space and good care, the crowns should last at least 20 years. Do stay ahead of the weeds; asparagus will give up instead of competing with them.
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 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.
What is the best fertilizer for asparagus?
The best fertilizer for asparagus will feature a balanced formula that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, such as a 10-10-10 or 15-15-15 blend. Beginning in the fourth year, apply fertilizer after the final harvest in late spring or early summer, instead of a spring application.
Should you let asparagus go to seed?
Ferning out in asparagus is actually a good thing, as it indicates that photosynthesis is being promoted, therefore, nutrition production and absorption increases. As the asparagus ferns out, female spears produce green berries that eventually turn red. These berries/seeds, however, are unlikely to produce new plants.
What is the lifespan of asparagus?
Most asparagus plants have a 10 year life expectancy. However, we have heard of cases where the plants live much longer. Asparagus plants are either male or female.
