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When to Plant Aspagarus in the Bay Area

An asparagus bed is a lifetime investment. Once this vegetable becomes established, it produces for decades. Asparagus, however, does require patience to get started and should only be harvested after the first two to three years of growth. If you choose the right variety for a mild Mediterranean climate such as the Bay Area, asparagus is usually one of the first vegetables to wind up on your dinner table.

  1. Longevity with the Right Choice

    • While no particular variety is universally recommended, asparagus grows well in all regions of the United States, except along the Gulf Coast. Each region has different growing requirements, which makes selection extremely important. The growing season in a mild climate can begin as early as March, as long as the crowns get lots of sun; certain varieties have been developed with these variations in mind. If you choose correctly, your asparagus bed can last more than 20 years, which is why these easy-to-grow vegetables warrant a separate bed, away from seasonal cultivation.

    Climate Zones

    • The Bay Area and regions further inland fall into U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 8 through 10, with the Pacific Ocean and inland valleys being the two biggest influences on the climate and growing season. With moderate coastal temperatures and some cooler climates inland, the area poses an interesting challenge to new gardeners. Crowns can be planted in early spring and seeds in late winter. You can also use a cold frame to start your plants early and to extend your growing season.

    Varieties

    • Varieties well suited for early spring planting include "Jersey Giant," appropriate for zones 2 through 9, "Jersey King" for zones 4 through 8, and "Jersey Knight" for zones 3 through 10. Asparagus crowns are sold by age, and either one or two-year-old crowns are fine. Asparagus can also be grown from seed, but it delays harvest by two to three years.

    Planting

    • To have a healthy asparagus bed, choose a sunny spot that will remain undisturbed. Dig a trench about 16 inches deep and fill it with 10 inches of soil mixed with compost. The site also should be near a source of water. After preparing the bed in early spring, set the crowns 8 inches deep in the trench and every 2 feet or more apart. Cover the asparagus crowns with several inches of rich soil, and gradually fill in the trench as the spears mature; asparagus grow quickly. To discourage the asparagus beetle from taking hold, plant a few parsley plants between each asparagus crown.

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Vegetable Garden
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