Asparagus

Botanical name: Asparagus officinalis
Asparagus is a herbaceous ferny perennial to 1.5 m high, asparagus has both male and female plants. Sow seed in seedling trays in early spring, 5 mm deep at 25°C soil temperature. Germination will take approximately 21 days. Plant out in full sun in a deep, rich, well-drained, soil, compost and manures are beneficial. The pH of the soil should be 6.5, lime if necessary. After the 1^st year, remove female berry-bearing plants as the berries will germinate and choke the bed if left. Care should be taken to avoid harvesting the first few years, to allow the crowns to build strength.