The Ultimate Guide to How to Grow Asparagus in the Philippines

Asparagus, with its delicate stalks and unique flavor, is a beloved vegetable worldwide. But did you know that you can grow this nutritious delicacy right in your own backyard in the Philippines? This guide will take you through the process of cultivating asparagus, from choosing the right variety to harvesting your first delicious spears.

Understanding Asparagus: A Guide to the Plant

Asparagus is a perennial vegetable, meaning it can live for several years and produce crops annually. It’s a member of the lily family and grows from underground stems called crowns. The edible part of the plant is the tender spear, which emerges from the crown in the spring.

Choosing the Right Asparagus Variety for the Philippines

When selecting an asparagus variety, consider factors like climate, soil type, and desired harvest time. In the Philippines, where the climate is generally warm and humid, you’ll want to choose a variety that thrives in these conditions. Some popular varieties for the Philippines include:

• Purple Passion: This variety is known for its vibrant purple spears and excellent flavor. It’s also relatively heat-tolerant, making it suitable for the Philippine climate.
• UC-15: This variety is a vigorous grower with high yields. It’s known for its sweet flavor and good resistance to diseases.
• Jersey Giant: This variety is known for producing large, thick spears with a mild flavor. It’s a good choice for those who prefer a more substantial asparagus.

Preparing Your Garden for Asparagus: Soil and Sunlight

Asparagus thrives in well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. If your soil is not ideal, you can amend it with compost, manure, or other organic matter. Asparagus also needs plenty of sunlight, at least six hours a day.

Here’s how to prepare your garden:

1. Choose a sunny location: Select a spot in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
2. Test your soil: Use a soil testing kit to determine the pH of your soil. If it’s too acidic or alkaline, you can adjust it with lime or sulfur.
3. Prepare the soil: Dig a bed about 12 inches deep and 4 feet wide. Mix in plenty of compost or manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.

Planting Asparagus Crowns: A Step-by-Step Guide

Asparagus crowns are the underground stems that contain the roots and buds. These are the starting point for your asparagus plants.

Follow these steps for planting your asparagus crowns:

1. Purchase crowns: Purchase high-quality asparagus crowns from a reputable nursery or online retailer.
2. Planting time: The best time to plant asparagus crowns in the Philippines is during the cool season, from November to December.
3. Planting depth: Plant the crowns 4-6 inches deep, with the buds facing upwards.
4. Spacing: Space the crowns 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 4-5 feet apart.
5. Watering: Water the crowns deeply immediately after planting.

Caring for Your Asparagus Plants: Fertilizing, Watering, and Weeding

To ensure your asparagus plants thrive and produce bountiful harvests, follow these care tips:

Fertilizing:

• Asparagus plants are heavy feeders and require regular fertilization.
• Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, during the growing season.
• Apply fertilizer around the base of the plants, avoiding direct contact with the crowns.

Watering:

• Keep the soil consistently moist during the growing season.
• Water deeply during dry spells, especially during the first year after planting.
• Mulch around the base of the plants to help retain moisture.

Weeding:

• Regularly remove weeds from around the asparagus plants.
• Weeds compete with asparagus for nutrients and water.

Harvesting Asparagus: Timing is Key

Asparagus spears are ready for harvest when they are about 6-8 inches tall and firm to the touch.

Harvesting tips:

• Use a sharp knife or asparagus knife: Cut the spears just below the soil level, leaving a small portion of the spear in the ground.
• Harvest regularly: Harvest the spears every 2-3 days to encourage continued growth.
• Avoid harvesting during the first year: Allow the plants to establish themselves during their first year.

Asparagus: A Culinary Delight

Asparagus is a versatile vegetable that can be enjoyed in numerous ways. Here are some delicious ways to use your fresh asparagus harvest:

• Roasted asparagus: Toss asparagus spears with olive oil, salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs, then roast in a hot oven until tender-crisp.
• Grilled asparagus: Season asparagus spears with salt, pepper, and lemon juice, then grill over medium heat until tender-crisp.
• Asparagus soup: Puree cooked asparagus with broth, cream, and seasonings for a light and flavorful soup.
• Asparagus salad: Add fresh asparagus spears to your favorite salad for a burst of flavor and texture.

A Lasting Legacy: Asparagus in the Philippine Garden

Asparagus is a rewarding vegetable to grow in the Philippines. With proper care, your asparagus plants can produce delicious spears for many years to come. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and savor the unique flavor of homegrown asparagus.

Information You Need to Know

1. Can I grow asparagus from seed in the Philippines?

While you can grow asparagus from seed, it’s a much slower process than planting crowns. Crowns are already established plants, making them the preferred choice for most gardeners.

2. How long does it take for asparagus to mature?

It takes about 2-3 years for asparagus plants to reach maturity and produce a full harvest.

3. What are some common pests and diseases that affect asparagus?

Asparagus can be affected by pests like asparagus beetles and diseases like rust. Regular inspection and appropriate pest control measures are important to keep your plants healthy.

4. Is it possible to grow asparagus in pots in the Philippines?

Yes, you can grow asparagus in pots, but you’ll need a large container with good drainage. Ensure the pot is at least 18 inches wide and deep to accommodate the plant’s root system.

5. How do I know when to stop harvesting asparagus?

Harvesting should stop in late spring or early summer, when the spears become thinner and less flavorful. This allows the plant to store energy for the next growing season.