Planting 2-year asparagus crowns is an exciting step towards growing your own delicious and nutritious asparagus. Here’s a detailed guide on how to plant them successfully:
1. Site Selection:
– Choose a sunny location for your asparagus bed, as asparagus thrives in full sunlight.
– Ensure that the soil is well-draining, as asparagus dislikes standing water.
– Ideally, the soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.
2. Soil Preparation:
– Start by removing any weeds or grass from the planting area, as they can compete with the young asparagus crowns.
– Dig the soil to a depth of at least 12-18 inches (30-45 cm), breaking up any clumps and removing stones or debris.
– Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil to improve its fertility and structure.
3. Planting the Crowns:
– Dig a trench that is 6-8 inches (15-20 cm) deep and wide enough to accommodate the asparagus crowns with their roots spread out.
– Place the crowns in the trench, spacing them around 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) apart. Keep the crowns at the bottom of the trench, with their buds facing upwards.
– Gently spread out the roots of the crowns in the trench, making sure they are not tangled or cramped.
– Cover the crowns with 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) of soil, and water the area thoroughly.
4. Care and Maintenance:
– Mulch the asparagus bed with a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
– Keep the bed well-watered, especially during dry spells, to ensure the young crowns establish properly.
– As the asparagus spears emerge, gradually fill in the trench with additional soil until it is level with the surrounding ground. This process, called “hilling,” helps develop a deeper root system.
– Avoid harvesting any spears during the first year, allowing the young plants to grow and establish a strong root system.
By following these steps, you can ensure the successful planting of your 2-year asparagus crowns. Remember, asparagus is a perennial vegetable, and with proper care, it can provide you with a bountiful harvest for many years to come. Happy gardening!
