Asparagus

Asparagus Plants – Long-Lived Perennial Vegetables!

Asparagus is a perennial vegetable that, once established, can produce delicious spears

for over 15 years! These tender young shoots are packed with flavor and nutrients.

If left to grow and mature, Asparagus develops into feathery green plumes with tiny flowers and berry-like seed pods in summer and fall. Florists love using the greenery in bouquets! The mature plant reaches 3 to 4 feet tall. But typically, Asparagus spears are harvested when they are just 6 - 10 inches tall and about half an inch thick.

• Why Grow Asparagus?
• Ways to Enjoy Asparagus
• Top Asparagus Varieties At NatureHills.com:
• Harvesting Asparagus
• Growing & Caring for Asparagus Plants
• Tasty Spears Shipped To Your Doorstep!

Why Grow Asparagus?

Check Out These Incredible Health Benefits!

• Rich in antioxidants, Vitamin E, K, and folic acid
• Supports gut health
• These cruciferous vegetables may have anti-cancer properties

Ways to Enjoy Asparagus

• Steam or sauté in butter or olive oil
• Pairs well with garlic, balsamic vinegar, cheese, and lemon
• Wrap in pastry or bacon for an elegant twist
• You can also juice the spears or whiz them up in your morning smoothies
• Bake or sauté in quiche, eggs, or risotto

Top Asparagus Varieties At NatureHills.com:

Asparagus comes in various colors - Traditional green, green with purple highlights, deep burgundy/purple (sweeter spears!), and white (blanched to prevent photosynthesis).

• Jersey Knight
• Purple Passion
• Jersey Giant
• Jersey Supreme
• Mary Washington

Growing & Caring for Asparagus Plants

Spring is the biggest harvest time, but later spears can also be collected. Harvest when spears reach 6-10 inches tall by snapping or cutting them at ground level. Leave some spears to help the plant grow strong for future harvests.

Tasty Spears Shipped To Your Doorstep!

Cold-hardy and heat-tolerant, and easy to grow, choose a sunny location for your Asparagus patch! These perennial vegetables will produce delicious spears and create new plantlets for up to 10-15 years!

Great for growing in an Asparagus patch, Victory garden beds, raised beds, or containers!

• Planting Time: Spring or fall is the best time to get your Asparagus root system established
• Spacing: 18 inches apart in rows 5 feet apart or in trenches 10 inches wide.
• Depth: Plant bare root and container-grown 8 inches deep
• Soil Needs: Choose a location that is very well-drained, and has nutrient-rich soil
• Sunlight: Full sun is needed for the healthiest, fattest spears.
• Time to Maturity: 2 seasons before full production
• Annual Composting: Boosts soil health for strong growth by top-dressing with rich compost.

Asparagus Companion Plants:

• Herbs: Basil, Parsley, and Dill
• Grape vines, Tomatoes, and Strawberries
• Nasturtiums (help repel pests!)

How long does Asparagus take to grow?
Asparagus takes two growing seasons to mature before producing a full harvest. However, once established, it will provide fresh spears for 15+ years.

When is the best time to plant Asparagus?
Plant in early spring or fall when temperatures are cooler to help roots establish.

How deep should I plant Asparagus crowns?
Plant 8 inches deep in well-drained soil, covering the crowns lightly at first and adding more soil as they grow.

Does Asparagus need full sun?
Yes, Asparagus thrives in full sun (at least 6-8 hours per day).

Can Asparagus grow in containers?
Yes, Asparagus can grow in large containers or raised beds, but ensure good drainage and nutrient-rich soil for best results.

How do I harvest Asparagus?
Harvest when spears are 6-10 inches tall, snapping or cutting them near the ground. Leave some spears behind to nourish the plant.

How do I care for Asparagus in winter?
In fall, cut back dead foliage and apply a layer of compost or mulch to protect the roots over winter.