How Do You Plant Bare Root Asparagus?
Planting bare root asparagus involves digging a trench, creating a mound at the bottom, spreading the roots over the mound, and carefully backfilling the trench, ensuring the crown is buried at the correct depth. The key to success is thorough preparation and proper root placement for robust, long-term yields.
Introduction to Bare Root Asparagus Planting
Asparagus, a perennial vegetable prized for its tender shoots, is a garden staple. Starting with bare root plants is a common and often more cost-effective method compared to purchasing established container plants. Bare root asparagus crowns, dormant and devoid of soil, offer a blank canvas for planting and establishing a productive asparagus bed. Understanding the nuances of planting bare root asparagus ensures a healthy and bountiful harvest for years to come.
Benefits of Planting Bare Root Asparagus
Opting for bare root asparagus presents several advantages:
- Cost-effective: Bare root crowns are generally less expensive than established plants.
- Variety Selection: Bare root options often provide a wider selection of asparagus varieties.
- Ease of Handling: Dormant crowns are lightweight and easy to transport.
- Improved Establishment: Direct contact with native soil can promote stronger root development.
- Disease Prevention: Inspecting bare root crowns allows for early detection and removal of diseased material.
Selecting the Right Asparagus Variety
Choosing the right asparagus variety is crucial for long-term success. Consider factors like climate, soil type, and desired yield. Some popular varieties include:
- Jersey Knight: A high-yielding, all-male hybrid known for its disease resistance.
- Jersey Giant: Another high-yielding, all-male hybrid with thick spears.
- Millennium: A productive and cold-hardy variety suitable for colder climates.
- Purple Passion: A unique variety with purple spears that turn green when cooked.
Preparing the Planting Site
Proper site preparation is paramount for asparagus, a crop that can remain productive for 15-20 years. Asparagus requires well-drained soil and full sun (at least 6 hours per day).
- Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test to determine pH and nutrient levels. Asparagus prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.0).
- Soil Amendment: Incorporate plenty of organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to improve soil drainage and fertility.
- Weed Control: Eliminate all perennial weeds from the planting area. Asparagus does not compete well with weeds, especially during establishment.
- Trench Digging: Dig trenches 12-18 inches wide and 6-8 inches deep. The length of the trench depends on the number of crowns you are planting.
The Planting Process: Step-by-Step Guide
This outlines how to plant bare-root asparagus, step-by-step:
- Soak the Roots: Before planting, soak the bare root crowns in water for about an hour to rehydrate them.
- Create a Mound: Create a small mound of soil in the center of the trench. This mound will support the crown.
- Position the Crown: Place the crown on top of the mound, spreading the roots evenly around it.
- Cover the Roots: Gently cover the roots with 2-3 inches of soil. Ensure the crown is not buried too deeply.
- Water Thoroughly: Water the newly planted crowns thoroughly to settle the soil.
- Gradual Backfilling: As the asparagus spears emerge, gradually backfill the trench with soil until it is level with the surrounding ground. This gradual backfilling encourages the development of a strong root system.
Fertilizing Asparagus
Asparagus is a heavy feeder and benefits from regular fertilization.
- At Planting: Incorporate a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) into the soil before planting.
- Annual Application: Apply a side dressing of fertilizer in early spring and again after the harvest season.
- Organic Options: Consider using organic fertilizers such as compost tea or fish emulsion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes during planting and establishment is essential for long-term asparagus health and productivity:
- Planting Too Deep: Planting the crown too deep can inhibit spear emergence and lead to crown rot.
- Poor Soil Drainage: Asparagus roots are susceptible to rot in poorly drained soil.
- Insufficient Watering: Consistent watering is crucial, especially during the establishment phase.
- Weed Neglect: Failure to control weeds can significantly reduce asparagus yields.
- Early Harvesting: Avoid harvesting any spears during the first year and only harvest lightly in the second year. This allows the plants to establish a strong root system.
Asparagus Planting Timeline
| Stage | Timing | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Site Preparation | Fall/Spring | Soil testing, amendment, weed removal, trench digging |
| Planting | Spring | Soak crowns, create mound, position crown, cover roots, water thoroughly |
| Establishment | Spring/Summer | Gradual backfilling, consistent watering, weed control, fertilization |
| Harvest | Year 3+ | Harvest spears for 6-8 weeks each spring. |
Caring for Your Asparagus Bed After Planting
- Water Regularly: Especially during dry spells.
- Weed Consistently: Remove any weeds that emerge in the bed.
- Fertilize Annually: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and after the harvest.
- Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Harvesting Asparagus Spears
Patience is key when harvesting asparagus. As stated earlier, refrain from harvesting during the first year to allow the plants to establish a strong root system. In the second year, harvest sparingly (for only a few weeks). From the third year onward, you can harvest spears for 6-8 weeks each spring. Harvest spears when they are 6-8 inches tall and about the diameter of your finger. Cut spears at ground level with a sharp knife.
Conclusion
Planting bare root asparagus requires careful preparation and attention to detail. By following these guidelines, you can establish a healthy and productive asparagus bed that will provide you with fresh, delicious spears for many years to come. Remember, patience and consistent care are the keys to success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How deep should I plant bare root asparagus?
The top of the crown should be buried 2-3 inches below the soil surface. Planting too deep can hinder spear emergence, while planting too shallow can expose the crown to frost damage. Aim for the perfect balance to optimize growth.
What is the best time of year to plant bare root asparagus?
Early spring, after the danger of hard frost has passed, is the ideal time to plant bare root asparagus. This allows the plants to establish a strong root system before the heat of summer arrives. Cool temperatures are beneficial for root development.
What kind of soil is best for asparagus?
Asparagus thrives in well-drained, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.0). Amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, is crucial for improving drainage and fertility.
How far apart should I space asparagus crowns?
Space asparagus crowns 12-18 inches apart within the trench. This provides adequate space for root development and spear production. Proper spacing helps prevent overcrowding.
Can I plant asparagus in raised beds?
Yes, asparagus can be successfully grown in raised beds, especially if your native soil is heavy clay or poorly drained. Ensure the raised bed is deep enough (at least 12 inches) to accommodate the asparagus roots. Good drainage is crucial in raised beds as well.
How long does it take for asparagus to produce?
It typically takes 2-3 years for asparagus plants to reach full production. Refrain from harvesting during the first year and only harvest sparingly in the second year to allow the plants to establish a strong root system. Patience is rewarded with abundant harvests in subsequent years.
What are the most common asparagus pests and diseases?
Common asparagus pests include asparagus beetles and aphids. Common diseases include asparagus rust and crown rot. Regular inspection and preventative measures are crucial for managing pests and diseases.
How do I control weeds in my asparagus bed?
Mulching with organic materials, such as straw or wood chips, can help suppress weeds. Hand-pulling weeds is also effective, especially when they are small. Avoid using herbicides near asparagus plants. Consistent weeding is essential for healthy asparagus growth.
How often should I water my asparagus plants?
Water asparagus plants deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week. Consistent moisture is crucial, particularly during the establishment phase and spear production.
Do I need to prune asparagus ferns?
Yes, after the harvest season, allow the asparagus ferns to grow and mature. In the fall or early winter, after the ferns have turned brown, cut them back to ground level. This helps to prevent disease and prepare the plants for winter dormancy.
What is the best fertilizer for asparagus?
A balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) is suitable for asparagus. You can also use organic fertilizers such as compost tea or fish emulsion. Apply fertilizer in early spring and again after the harvest season. Regular fertilization supports vigorous growth and high yields.
How long will my asparagus bed last?
With proper care, an asparagus bed can remain productive for 15-20 years or even longer. The key is to provide adequate sunlight, well-drained soil, regular fertilization, and weed control. Long-term commitment pays off with years of delicious asparagus harvests.