Asparagus grows well in a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil having a pH of 6.5 - 7.0. Prepare the soil one year in advance to get rid of harmful, active weeds. If necessary, apply lime, composte and the appropriate fertilizer as indicated by the soil analysis.

PLANTING AND MAINTENANCE

Before planting, apply a phosphorous-rich fertilizer to a depth of 10cm. Plant the tendrils or roots 30 cm apart in a 15cm-deep furrow and cover with 5cm of soil. Keep the furrows 1.3 - 1.5 m apart. As the stems grow, continue weeding and periodically add earth into the furrows until they are full by the end of the growing season. Water and fertilize as required.

The following spring, cut off the old stems at ground level. Fertilize, water and weed as required, making sure not to damage the crowns. When the new stems or stalks are big enough, harvest them within the first two weeks. After that, let the stems develop to allow the accumulation of residue in the crowns. This residue helps ensure the following season's harvest. Periodically check for insects and treat accordingly.

Follow the same procedure in succeeding seasons. The harvest period could eventually extend to one month. The bigger the stalks, the longer the harvest.