How To Grow Asparagus

Asparagus is a highly productive perennial plant with erect, edible stems. Asparagus shoots are tender and mild tasting and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are most often steamed. Asparagus is a gourmet and highly nutritious vegetable and one of the best investments a gardener can make. It will offer its goodness for 20 to 30 years.

You can start asparagus from seed but it is more usual to buy 1 year old crowns. When sown from seed they take 3 years to produce a crop, two years when grown from a 1 year old crown. Each plant will produce approximately 25 spears each year and will continue to crop for up to 30 years.

Asparagus will need loose and slightly sandy soil, that is rich in organic material. Preparing the planting area in advance is a good idea, autumn is a good time.

Asparagus is a healthy and delicious addition to any meal. It's high in potassium, vitamins A, C, K, thiamin, riboflavin, folate, iron and great for fibre. A wonderful vegetable to grow and put fresh on the table.