How Does Asparagus Grow? A Guide to Cultivation
How Does Asperagus Grow?
Asparagus grows from crowns, which are planted about 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) under the ground.
It takes about three days for asparagus to grow tall enough to harvest, with growth rates of up to 25 centimeters (10 inches) within a 24-hour period.
Asparagus season typically begins in early May and lasts for six to eight weeks.
It is ready to pick when it reaches a height of 20 to 25 cm (8 – 10 inches).
The plants can last up to twenty years and do not need to be replanted each year.
Asparagus growth stops in July when the plants become tall and thin with a woody texture and start going to seed.
Harvesting stops during this stage due to the diminished quality of the asparagus.
The plants are left standing in the field throughout the summer, fall, and winter, and the field is mowed down in the spring to prepare for a new cycle.
Key Points:
- Asparagus grows from crowns planted under the ground.
- It takes about three days for asparagus to grow tall enough to harvest.
- Asparagus season starts in early May and lasts for six to eight weeks.
- It is ready to pick when it reaches a height of 20 to 25 cm.
- Asparagus plants can last up to twenty years without needing to be replanted.
- Asparagus growth stops in July when plants become tall and thin with a woody texture and start going to seed.
Did You Know?
1. Asparagus is a perennial plant, meaning it can live and produce spears for more than 20 years if well-maintained.
2. Historically, asparagus was considered a luxury vegetable and was exclusively cultivated for the Egyptian pharaohs and Roman emperors.
3. Asparagus spears can grow up to 10 inches in a single day under ideal conditions, making them one of the fastest-growing vegetables in the world.
4. Asparagus plants require a chilling period of at least 500 hours below 45°F (7°C) during their dormancy phase to produce a good harvest.
5. The purple variety of asparagus, known as “violetto d’Albenga,” is particularly rare and valued for its sweet, nutty flavor. It is native to Italy and has been cultivated since the 16th century.
Asparagus Growth And Harvesting Process
Asparagus is a beloved crop in Canada, with its locally grown production beginning as early as May. The growth and harvesting process of asparagus is a fascinating one. Within just three days of planting, asparagus can rapidly grow tall enough to be harvested in early spring. It is not uncommon for asparagus to grow up to an astonishing 25 centimeters (10 inches) within a 24-hour period.
The asparagus season typically kicks off in early May but can sometimes start as early as late April. This period lasts for six to eight weeks, during which daily harvesting takes place. The optimal time to pick asparagus is when the spears are 20 to 25 cm (8 – 10 inches) tall. The harvesting process itself is entirely manual, as harvest crews ride through the asparagus fields on specialized harvest carts, hand-picking each spear with care.
Planting asparagus is done using crowns, which are stems attached to long strings of roots. These crowns are planted about 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches) below the ground. The first year of harvest involves a two-week period, followed by a four-week period in the second year. However, by the third or fourth year, asparagus can be harvested for the full six to eight-week season. Remarkably, asparagus plants can continue to produce abundantly for up to twenty years without needing to be replanted.
In July, asparagus growth comes to a halt, and the plants start becoming tall and thin with a woody texture. At this point, they also begin going to seed. Harvesting is then stopped due to the diminished quality of the asparagus, and the plants are left standing in the field throughout the summer, fall, and winter. In the spring, the field is mowed down, and the process begins anew.
- Asparagus grows rapidly, with some spears growing up to 25 cm (10 inches) within 24 hours.
- The six to eight-week asparagus season typically starts in early May.
- The optimal time for harvesting asparagus is when the spears are 20 to 25 cm (8 – 10 inches) tall.
- Planting asparagus involves using crowns, which are stems attached to roots.
- Asparagus can be harvested for the full season starting from the third or fourth year of planting.
- Asparagus plants can continue to produce abundantly for up to twenty years without replanting.
- In July, asparagus growth stops, and the plants begin to go to seed, leading to diminished quality.
Planting And Growing Asparagus
Growing asparagus requires specific steps and considerations to ensure a successful crop. Asparagus can be grown either from seeds or crowns, although many prefer using crowns for a more reliable and faster harvest. Interestingly, just 25 crowns can produce an impressive 20 pounds of asparagus spears annually.
Starting asparagus seeds should be done around 12 to 14 weeks before the last frost date. For quicker germination, it is recommended to soak the seeds in water beforehand. At an optimal temperature of 60° to 85°, the seeds will germinate within 8 to 12 days. To prevent stretching, it’s important to keep the seedlings under a grow light until they are ready for planting.
Before planting, it is necessary to harden off the asparagus seedlings. This process involves gradually acclimating them to outdoor conditions, ensuring they can withstand the harsher environment. When selecting a suitable spot to grow asparagus, consider that it is a long-lived perennial crop that requires full sun and does not shade out other plants.
The soil pH for asparagus should be neutral, ranging between 6.5 and 7.5, to enable efficient uptake of nutrients. A soil test conducted by the local cooperative extension can help determine the pH level and any micronutrient deficiencies in the soil. Once the soil temperature reaches 50°, it is time to plant the asparagus crowns.
Plant the crowns in furrows that are 5 to 8 inches deep, with the bud-side facing upwards and the roots spread out. The crowns should be spaced between 8 and 14 inches apart, while rows should have a spacing of 3 to 6 feet. In heavy soil, it is safer to plant the crowns shallow, while in colder climates, they should be planted deeper.
Varieties Of Asparagus And Their Characteristics
Asparagus comes in a variety of types, each offering its own unique characteristics and benefits. One commonly known variety is “white asparagus,” which is actually green asparagus covered in mulch or soil to prevent sunlight exposure. This method results in a more tender texture.
Erasmus is an all-male purple asparagus variety, known for its sweeter flavor and tender texture. It flourishes in zones 3 to 10. Guelph Millennium, on the other hand, is an all-male variety developed in Ontario. It boasts cold tolerance and high productivity, making it a popular choice among growers.
Jersey Giant and Jersey Knight are part of the Jersey series of all-male asparagus varieties. They feature medium to large green spears and a high resistance to rust disease. Another variety from the Jersey series is Jersey Supreme, which is known for its high yield, slim spears, and exceptional resistance to rust and fusarium.
Mary Washington Improved is a green asparagus variety famous for producing more spears with tighter tips. Pacific Purple, a British asparagus variety, stands out with its thick and deep-purple spears. Purple Passion, on the other hand, presents large-diameter purple spears that are renowned for their sweetness and tenderness. Spartacus is a productive all-male hybrid variety highly regarded by asparagus enthusiasts.
Caring For Asparagus Plants
To ensure the success and longevity of asparagus plants, proper care is essential. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Consistent and adequate watering: During the initial planting phase, it is crucial to provide regular and sufficient water to the plants.
- Mulching: Help retain moisture and protect the plants against pathogens by using mulch around the asparagus plants.
- Supply of nutrients: Maintain the soil’s fertility and support robust growth by using manure, compost, fish emulsion, or organic fertilizer.
- Choosing resistant varieties: Overcome potential pest and disease issues by selecting asparagus varieties that are resistant to them.
- Organic controls: Use organic methods to control pests like aphids and asparagus beetles, minimizing damage to the crop.
- Fungal diseases: Familiarize yourself with symptoms and appropriate treatments, such as fusarium, purple spot, and rust, to prevent their spread and protect the plants.
- Proper harvesting: Select only pencil-thick spears and leave the tough lower portions behind. Enjoy the asparagus on the same day or as soon as possible for maximum flavor and texture.
- End of growing season: Cut back ferny growth and check soil pH. Adding compost or other soil amendments can help maintain soil health for the next growing cycle.
Remember to take care of your asparagus plants by following these guidelines. Your plants will thrive, resulting in a bountiful harvest.
Pests, Diseases, And Harvesting Tips For Asparagus
Asparagus, like any other crop, is susceptible to pests and diseases that can hinder its growth and overall health. Two common pests that asparagus growers often encounter are aphids and asparagus beetles. These pests can be controlled through various means, such as physical removal, insecticidal soaps, or the introduction of beneficial insects that prey on them.
- Asparagus is vulnerable to several fungal diseases, including fusarium, purple spot, and rust.
- Fusarium can cause crown and root rot, ultimately leading to the death of the plants.
- Purple spot and rust also contribute to plant decline.
- Regular inspection and proper management, including maintaining good sanitation practices and employing appropriate fungicides, can help mitigate the impact of these diseases.
When it comes to harvesting asparagus, it is crucial to pick only the pencil-thick spears and leave the tougher lower part of the plant behind. This allows the asparagus to regenerate and continue producing more delicious spears. Freshly harvested asparagus should be consumed as soon as possible to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
To ensure the longevity and health of asparagus plants, it is essential to cut back the ferny growth at the end of each growing season. This helps prevent diseases and allows the plants to focus their energy on producing new spears. Regular soil pH testing and adding compost or other suitable soil amendments are also crucial steps in caring for asparagus plants.
Growing asparagus is a rewarding and labor-intensive process. It begins in early spring, with rapid growth allowing for harvesting within a few days. Asparagus can continue to produce tasty spears for up to twenty years, making it a valuable crop for both home gardeners and commercial growers. By following the proper planting, care, and harvesting techniques, it is possible to enjoy the delicious flavors of asparagus season after season.
- Asparagus is susceptible to pests like aphids and asparagus beetles.
- Fungal diseases, including fusarium, purple spot, and rust, can affect asparagus plants.
- Harvest only pencil-thick spears and consume them fresh for the best flavor.
- Cut back ferny growth at the end of each growing season to prevent diseases and promote new spear growth.
- Regularly test the soil pH and add compost or suitable soil amendments to care for asparagus plants.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is asparagus a plant or tree?
Asparagus is a plant, not a tree. It is a perennial crop that can produce spears for over a decade with proper care. Unlike trees, asparagus does not reach the height or structure of a tree, but rather grows low to the ground, making it a plant suitable for cultivation in specific areas.
Are asparagus plants or seeds?
Asparagus can be grown either from seeds or crowns. While both methods yield viable plants, there is a slight difference in the time required for them to fully mature. If you opt to grow asparagus from seeds, you can expect a longer wait of up to four seasons before being able to harvest fully. On the other hand, if you plant crowns, the waiting period can be reduced to around three seasons, giving you a head start on enjoying your homegrown asparagus.
How does asparagus multiply?
Asparagus multiplies through the growth and development of its crowns, which are 1-year-old roots with buds. Instead of relying solely on seeds, most gardeners opt to start asparagus from these established crowns. When planted, these crowns are capable of producing a bountiful harvest of spears, with 25 crowns yielding approximately 20 pounds of asparagus annually. While asparagus plants also have the potential to produce attractive red berries, this phenomenon is exclusive to female plants and does not play a direct role in their multiplication process.
How does asparagus grow in the dark?
Asparagus has a unique ability to grow in the dark due to a distinctive cultivation method. The growth process begins by carefully burying the spears in soil as they emerge, effectively shielding them from any sources of light. By cutting the spears deep beneath the surface, farmers ensure that they develop without exposure to sunlight. This innovative technique allows asparagus to flourish in the absence of light, resulting in tender and flavorful harvests that are eagerly anticipated by enthusiasts of this delectable vegetable.