UC 157 Asparagus Large Crowns (3 pack)

Choose the location

• Pick a sunny spot with at least 6–8 hours of direct sun each day.

• Soil should be loose and well drained, not waterlogged.

Prepare the bed

• Work the soil 12–18 inches deep in the area where the row will go.

• Mix in compost or well-rotted manure so the soil is rich and crumbly.

• Rake the area smooth.

Dig the trench

• Open a trench about 6–8 inches deep and 12–18 inches wide.

• If you are planting more than one row, space rows about 3–4 feet apart.

Place the crowns

• Space crowns about 12–18 inches apart along the bottom of the trench.

• Spread the roots out like a fan.

• Set crowns so the growing point (top of the crown) faces upward.

Cover the crowns

• Cover crowns with about 2 inches of soil and water well.

• As the new shoots grow over the first season, gradually pull more soil into the trench until it is filled to ground level.

Mulch

• Add a light mulch to help keep weeds down and hold moisture.

• Keep mulch a little away from the young shoots.

First-year care

• Keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.

• Keep the bed weed-free so young plants are not competing for water and nutrients.

• Do not harvest spears the first two seasons; let the plants grow strong for future crops.