Cultural Directions

Asparagus grows best in deep, well-drained, sandy loam soil.  Perennial weed problems must be removed at least one year in advance and soil pH needs to be brought up to near 7.0.  Phosphorous and potassium should be provided so soil contains 250 pounds of available phosphorous and 300 pounds of available potassium per acre.  Each year after harvest, 50 pounds of actual nitrogen should be broadcast.

A middle buster which throws soil in both directions should make a trench approximately 8" deep, in rows 4 feet apart.  Phosphate fertilizer should be applied in the trench at 200 pounds per acre.  The asparagus crowns are then laid in the trench 8-12" apart.  This will require approximately 10,000 crowns per acre.

Cover the crowns with 2-3" of soil.  Once the asparagus begins to emerge in the furrow, gradually fill and cover small weeds.  Eventually, the furrow should be level with surrounding soil.  Control weeds and insect pests, and water when necessary.  Fern can be left standing all winter where it catches snow and provides an attractive cover for wildlife.

The following year, mow fern down.  Then apply a pre-emergence herbicide over the shredded fern after dragging to the level of the previous year's furrow.  This should all be done 2-3 weeks before spears emerge.

Vigorous stands may be lightly harvested the second year, but on a very limited basis.  Each year the harvest can be extended until full production is reached in 4-6 years.  Stop the harvest when 3/4 of spears have a diameter less than a pencil's width (3/8 inches).  An asparagus field can last and be productive for 10-20 years.