My 10 Feet Asparagus Plant
Growing asparagus is a rewarding experience, but growing a 10-foot-tall asparagus plant is something truly extraordinary. While most asparagus plants grow between 4 to 6 feet tall when left unharvested, under the right conditions, they can reach impressive heights. This article will detail how I grew my towering asparagus plant, the ideal growing conditions, and how you can cultivate a thriving asparagus bed in your own garden.
Choosing the Right Asparagus Variety
Not all asparagus varieties grow to extreme heights. I selected the Jersey Giant variety, known for its vigorous growth and adaptability. Other robust varieties include Mary Washington and Purple Passion. Choosing a high-yield variety with strong fern growth is key to achieving a tall, healthy plant.
Planting and Soil Preparation
A strong asparagus plant starts with good soil. Here’s what I did to prepare:
- Soil Type: Asparagus thrives in well-draining, sandy loam soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5.
- Soil Enrichment: I added plenty of organic matter, such as compost and aged manure, to enhance fertility.
- Depth and Spacing: I planted the asparagus crowns 12 inches apart in a 12-inch deep trench, covering them with 2 inches of soil initially and gradually filling the trench as the spears grew.
Watering and Fertilization
- Watering: Regular deep watering was crucial, especially in the first two years of growth. I watered my asparagus bed 1-2 inches per week to encourage deep root development.
- Fertilization: I applied organic compost and a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) each spring to provide the necessary nutrients for rapid growth.
Sunlight and Growing Conditions
Asparagus requires full sun to grow strong and healthy. My asparagus bed received at least 8 hours of sunlight daily, ensuring robust fern growth, which is essential for feeding the roots and encouraging future spear production.
Patience: The Key to Success
Asparagus is a perennial plant, meaning it takes a few years to fully establish. Here’s my timeline:
- Year 1: Small spears emerged, but I resisted harvesting to allow the plants to strengthen.
- Year 2: The spears grew taller, and I started light harvesting.
- Year 3 and Beyond: Full harvest season began, and the plant continued to grow taller each year!
Encouraging Height Growth
If left unharvested, asparagus spears grow into tall, feathery ferns. Here’s how I encouraged my plant to reach 10 feet:
- Minimal Harvesting: I limited spear harvesting to allow maximum energy storage.
- Support System: I provided bamboo stakes to keep the ferns upright and prevent breakage.
- Consistent Care: Regular feeding, watering, and mulching protected the roots and encouraged strong growth.
Challenges and Solutions
Growing a 10-foot asparagus plant wasn’t without challenges:
- Pests: Aphids and asparagus beetles were common, but I used neem oil and companion planting (marigolds) to keep them away.
- Wind Damage: Tall ferns can be fragile, so I used garden netting for wind protection.
- Soil Depletion: Annual composting replenished nutrients and kept the plants thriving.
Conclusion
My 10-foot asparagus plant is a testament to patience, care, and the right growing conditions. If you’re passionate about gardening and want to grow towering asparagus, focus on soil health, consistent watering, and strong fern development. With time, you, too, can cultivate an impressive asparagus plant that stands out in your garden!
