Topic: Asparagus ....again..!

[undercarriage plan]

Is it too early to be cutting back the fern growth on my asparagus? It's beginning to turn brown, and one or two flopping? Just seems really early. Thanks Lottie  ;D

[tim]

A bit early. But if it's looking tired, not much harm will come. It may be very dry?

[undercarriage plan]

Good point Tim, thanks! Will soak it tonight and see how it's fairing tomorrow. Lottie  ;D

[Icyberjunkie]

I have to say mine looks yours Tim with just a very few outer stems showing signs of yellowing so would have to agree.

[undercarriage plan]

Yes, but mine is bigger and taller......even if it is yellowing and flopping.....lol even spied a lonley spear, but resisted.. ;) ;D Lottie

[Icyberjunkie]

Bigger?  How big....mines 6 to 7' and thought that was tall hence the earlier question about shading!

[undercarriage plan]

Oooo at least 10ft if not more..... causes so much shade will need to cut it back.... ;) Actually, it's about 5ft... :-\ Lottie

[cyrilsquirrel]

Blimey....I didn't know they grew that big! :o

I have got some coming up that I started from seed 2 or 3 weeks ago , how do they grow? I assumed it was like rhubarb in a crown and only took up a small area. Will I have to give a bed over to them? ???

[Icyberjunkie]

I have got some coming up that I started from seed 2 or 3 weeks ago , how do they grow? I assumed it was like rhubarb in a crown and only took up a small area. Will I have to give a bed over to them? ???

They have quite an extensive root which is why it takes a couple of years to establish before you fully crop it.   Even if buying a crown (one year on from seed) you do not harvest the first year,  only harvest briefly the next and not until the third year do you get to harvest until the end of June. 

With regards a separate bed - that is basically what you need to do.   The basic method can be found at the link below....

http://www.whatprice.co.uk/gardening/growing-asparagus.html

Hope that helps, Iain

[tim]

up - soaking it? Tried to come back on that but I've been off-line for 2 days.

Wanted to remind you that the roots are 5" deep & it takes a lot of water to get that deep.

[cyrilsquirrel]

Thanks Tim.....thats a useful site! :)

[undercarriage plan]

Thanks Tim, will return and flood it!! Hoping for rain today, it's been so dry here. Lottie   :-*