How to Grow Asparagus in Ohio

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is a nutritious, perennial vegetable that can thrive in the right conditions. Known for its tender shoots and unique flavor, asparagus is a favorite among home gardeners in Ohio. This article will guide you through the steps of growing asparagus in Ohio, from selecting the right variety to harvesting your first crop.

Understanding Asparagus

Asparagus is a hardy perennial vegetable native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. It has a long growing season, which can last up to 15 years or more with proper care. Unlike many vegetables that are grown as annuals, asparagus requires patience and commitment. Once established, it can produce delicious spears each spring for many years.

Choosing the Right Variety

When growing asparagus in Ohio, selecting the right variety is essential. Here are some popular options:

Jersey Giant: This hybrid variety is known for its high yield and large spears. It is resistant to disease and is well-suited for Ohio’s climate.
Mary Washington: A classic heirloom variety, Mary Washington produces tender spears and is adaptable to various soil types.
Purple Passion: This unique variety has striking purple spears that turn green when cooked. It offers a sweeter flavor than traditional green asparagus.

It’s crucial to choose disease-resistant varieties that can withstand the local climate and soil conditions.

Preparing the Site

Selecting a Location

Asparagus thrives in full sun, so it’s essential to choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The soil should have good drainage to prevent waterlogging, as asparagus roots are sensitive to excess moisture.

Soil Preparation

The ideal soil for asparagus should be well-drained, loamy, and rich in organic matter. Here’s how to prepare your site:

Test Your Soil: Conduct a soil test to determine pH levels and nutrient content. Asparagus prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH levels (6.0-7.0).
Amend the Soil: Based on soil test results, add any necessary amendments such as compost, aged manure, or specific fertilizers to improve nutrient levels.
Tilling: Till the soil at least 12 inches deep to incorporate organic matter and aerate it.

Creating Raised Beds (Optional)

If your soil drainage is poor or if you prefer a more organized garden layout, consider creating raised beds. Raised beds allow for better drainage and can warm up quicker in spring.

Planting Asparagus

When to Plant

The best time to plant asparagus in Ohio is in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked—usually around mid-April through May. Alternatively, you may also plant crowns in the fall (September to early October), but spring planting is more common.

Planting Crowns

You can start asparagus from seeds or crowns (young plants). Growing from crowns is typically faster and easier:

Purchase Quality Crowns: Obtain healthy asparagus crowns from a reputable garden center or nursery.
Dig Trenches: Create trenches that are 12 inches wide and 6-8 inches deep.
Spacing: Place crowns 12-18 inches apart within the trench, spreading the roots evenly.
Covering: Cover crowns with about 2 inches of soil initially. As they grow, gradually fill in the trench with soil until it’s level with surrounding ground.

Watering After Planting

After planting your crowns, water them thoroughly but avoid waterlogging the area. Consistent moisture is crucial during germination and establishment.

Caring for Your Asparagus Plants

Fertilizing

Asparagus benefits from regular fertilization throughout its growing season:

In early spring, apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) at the rate specified on the package.
Add organic compost in mid-summer to support ongoing growth.

Mulching

Applying a layer of mulch around your asparagus plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Use straw or shredded leaves as mulch but avoid piling it directly against the plants’ stems.

Watering

Asparagus needs consistent watering during its first couple of years until established. Provide about an inch of water per week through rain or irrigation.

Weeding

Weed control is essential for healthy asparagus growth since weeds compete for nutrients and water:

Hand-pulling or hoeing weeds around your asparagus plants will prevent damage.
Avoid using herbicides close to asparagus plants since they can harm them.

Pest and Disease Management

Asparagus is susceptible to several pests and diseases:

Common Pests

Asparagus Beetles: These pests feed on both foliage and spears; handpicking them off plants is often effective.
Cabbage Looper: These green caterpillars can defoliate plants; use insecticidal soap if populations become high.

Common Diseases

Fusarium Wilt: A fungal disease causing yellowing foliage; avoid overcrowding plants and rotate crops regularly.
Rust: Look out for orange spots on leaves; remove infected foliage promptly and apply fungicide as necessary.

Harvesting Asparagus

When to Harvest

Harvesting typically begins in late April or early May when spears reach about 6-8 inches tall and are firm yet tender.

First-Year Harvesting: If you planted crowns in the spring of their first year, do not harvest any spears; allow them to grow into ferns so they can establish strong root systems.
Second-Year Harvesting: In the second year after planting, you can harvest lightly for about two weeks.
Full Harvest Schedule: By the third year, you can harvest for 4-6 weeks until mid-June.

How to Harvest

To harvest asparagus correctly:

Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut spears just above ground level.
Avoid pulling spears from their base as this can damage neighboring shoots.

Post-Harvest Care

After harvesting ends in mid-June:

Allow ferns to grow throughout summer; they photosynthesize crucial energy for next year’s growth.
Properly maintain moisture levels; continue weeding and mulching them until fall.
Prepare for winter by cutting back ferns down to ground level after frost has killed them back.

Conclusion

Growing asparagus in Ohio requires patience but rewards you with delicious harvests each spring for many years to come. By choosing the right variety, preparing your site properly, providing adequate care throughout the growing season, and harvesting wisely, you’ll enjoy fresh homegrown asparagus straight from your garden! With commitment and care, your investment will yield fruitful results that enhance your meals and impress your family and friends alike!