Asparagus is a
perennial
that provides one of the first vegetables harvested from the garden
each season. Best of all, once a planting is established, it will last
for many years, perhaps a lifetime.
Nutrition
Asparagus is loaded with folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin K, and has a
great ratio of potassium to sodium. Loaded with fiber and anti-tumor
compounds, asparagus contains quercetin, which is anti-inflammatory and
cancer-fighting. One cup of this vegetable has just 30 calories.
Varieties
Asparagus is a
dioecious plant, meaning the sexes are on separate plants. The female
plant produces larger spears but also produces seeds which become
‘weeds’ in the garden. Because of research and
breeding programs, there are several improved varieties of asparagus
from which to choose now.
Examples of older varieties such as Mary Washington, Waltham or Roberts
once were good but have since been replaced by improved and more
productive all male varieties such as Apollo, Jersey Knight, Jersey
Giant, Jersey Queen, Jersey Deluxe and Jersey Gem.
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Cultivation
Asparagus grows best in fertile, well-drained soil that is high in
organic matter.
Plant asparagus at the edge or side of the garden where it
won’t be in the way of garden activities. Be sure to loosen
the soil about a foot deep and incorporate well-rotted manure or
compost to increase the drainage and organic matter.
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Large, one-year-old crowns are recommended for planting.
Prepare a shallow trench no deeper than six inches and space the crowns
12 to 18 inches apart in the row. Then lightly cover the crown with
soil and gradually fill in the furrow as shoots emerge. Never
completely bury the developing asparagus fern.
Sources:
Jay Chism, agronomy specialist, University of
Missouri Extension.
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Asparagus
Asparagus Seeds Jersey
Knight
Asparagus Roots Jersey Supreme
Asparagus Plants Mary Washington
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