How to Grow Asparagus Meyersii: The Ultimate Guide for a Bountiful Harvest

Asparagus Meyersii, also known as “Meyer’s asparagus,” is a unique and delicious variety of asparagus prized for its tender, sweet spears and its exceptional cold hardiness. If you’re looking to add this delightful vegetable to your garden, learning how to grow asparagus Meyersii is an exciting endeavor. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every stage of the process, from selecting the right spot to harvesting your first spears.

Understanding Asparagus Meyersii

Asparagus Meyersii is a perennial vegetable, meaning it will return year after year, offering a bountiful harvest for several seasons. It’s a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some specific conditions to thrive. Here’s what makes this variety so special:

• Cold Hardiness: Asparagus Meyersii is known for its exceptional cold tolerance, making it suitable for colder climates where other asparagus varieties may struggle.
• Flavor: The spears are known for their sweet, delicate flavor, often described as being more tender and less fibrous than other asparagus varieties.
• Harvest: Meyersii produces a longer harvest season compared to some other varieties, extending from early spring to late summer.

Choosing the Right Location

Selecting the ideal location for your asparagus Meyersii is crucial for its success. These plants prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal conditions:

• Sunlight: Aim for a spot that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Partial shade, especially in hot climates, can also be suitable.
• Soil: Asparagus Meyersii thrives in loose, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Avoid planting in heavy clay soil, as it can lead to waterlogging and root rot.
• Space: Allow ample space between plants, as they can grow quite large. A spacing of 18-24 inches between plants is recommended.

Preparing the Soil

Asparagus Meyersii, like all asparagus varieties, is a heavy feeder and prefers nutrient-rich soil. Here’s how to prepare the soil for your asparagus patch:

1. Test the soil: Before planting, have your soil tested to determine its pH and nutrient levels.
2. Amend the soil: If needed, adjust the pH to 6.0-7.0 using lime or sulfur. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and fertility.
3. Till the soil: Till the soil to a depth of 12-18 inches to create a loose, workable bed for planting.

Planting Asparagus Meyersii

Now that your soil is prepared, you can plant your asparagus Meyersii crowns. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Choose your crowns: Select healthy, firm crowns with well-developed roots. Avoid crowns that show signs of damage or disease.
2. Dig trenches: Dig trenches about 12 inches deep and 18-24 inches wide, depending on the size of your crowns.
3. Position the crowns: Place the crowns in the trenches with the buds facing upwards. Space them 18-24 inches apart.
4. Cover the crowns: Backfill the trenches with soil, covering the crowns completely. Water thoroughly after planting.

Watering and Fertilizing

Regular watering and fertilization are essential for healthy asparagus growth. Here’s a guide to maintaining your asparagus plants:

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first year of growth. Water deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root development.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize your asparagus plants in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Apply a second dose of fertilizer in mid-summer to support growth. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or early fall, as it can promote late growth and make the plants more susceptible to winter damage.

Harvesting Your Asparagus Meyersii

The anticipation of harvesting your first spears is a rewarding moment. Here’s how to harvest your asparagus Meyersii:

• Harvest time: The first spears are typically ready for harvest in the spring, usually around 2-3 years after planting.
• Harvesting techniques: Cut the spears when they are about 6-8 inches tall. Use a sharp knife or shears to cut the spears at the base, leaving at least 1 inch of the spear above the ground.
• Harvesting frequency: Harvest spears every few days to encourage new growth. Avoid harvesting spears that are more than 1 inch in diameter, as they will be tougher and less flavorful.

Protecting Your Asparagus Plants

Asparagus Meyersii, like other asparagus varieties, is susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some tips for protecting your plants:

• Pest control: Monitor your plants for common asparagus pests like asparagus beetles, aphids, and spider mites. Use organic pest control methods such as insecticidal soap or neem oil.
• Disease control: Keep an eye out for signs of disease, including rust, powdery mildew, and root rot. Good sanitation practices and proper watering can help prevent these issues.

Enjoying the Rewards of Your Labor

Growing asparagus Meyersii is a rewarding experience, offering a delicious and nutritious vegetable for your table. Here are some ways to enjoy your harvest:

• Fresh: Enjoy the sweet, tender spears fresh, lightly steamed, or roasted.
• Recipes: Experiment with asparagus Meyersii in various recipes, from salads and soups to stir-fries and pasta dishes.
• Preservation: Preserve your harvest by freezing or canning asparagus spears for enjoyment throughout the year.

A Bountiful Harvest for Years to Come

Asparagus Meyersii is a long-lived perennial that can provide a bountiful harvest for many years. With proper care and attention, your asparagus patch will continue to produce delicious spears for years to come.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: How long does it take for asparagus Meyersii to produce spears?

A: It typically takes 2-3 years after planting for asparagus Meyersii to produce spears. During this time, the plants are focusing on developing their root system.

Q: How do I know when to harvest asparagus Meyersii?

A: Harvest spears when they are about 6-8 inches tall and have a diameter of about 1 inch or less. Avoid harvesting spears that are thicker than 1 inch, as they will be tougher and less flavorful.

Q: Can I grow asparagus Meyersii in containers?

A: While it’s possible to grow asparagus Meyersii in containers, it’s not ideal. Asparagus plants require ample space for their roots to spread, and containers may not provide enough room.

Q: What are some common problems with asparagus Meyersii?

A: Common problems with asparagus Meyersii include asparagus beetles, aphids, spider mites, rust, powdery mildew, and root rot. Good sanitation practices, proper watering, and pest control measures can help prevent these issues.

Q: How long will my asparagus Meyersii plants produce spears?

A: With proper care, your asparagus Meyersii plants can produce spears for 10-15 years or more. However, production will decline over time, and you may need to replace the plants after several years.