After a long period of cultivation and care, the time has finally come from the end of April/beginning of May: the green asparagus is ready to be harvested! Find out here what you have to consider.
Harvesting the green asparagus is far less time-consuming than with white asparagus, because you cut off the green asparagus sprouts directly above the ground. However, in order for there to be a high-yield harvest, you have to give the green asparagus good care. After that, only a few jobs remain to be done.
When does the asparagus harvest start?
The ripening time depends on the variety and the weather conditions. In general, the green asparagus harvest begins at the end of April. A sure indication is the soil temperature: if it is around 16°C, the harvest is within reach. After the sprouts of the green asparagus grow above ground, you can easily recognize the growth and the time of harvest by the length. From about 15 centimeters, when the heads are still tightly closed, reach for the knife. The rods can grow up to 25 centimeters long. Leave sticks that are too thin. The plants will then produce better crops next year. You have to be careful if there is still a threat of frost at night. Then cover the stalks that are already growing out of the ground with a bucket or fleece.
Tip:
If you want to speed up the start, create a warmer climate and faster growth with fleece or foil over the bed. The film can be transparent because green asparagus is not sensitive to light. On the other hand, dark, opaque film is used for white asparagus, which must not be exposed to light.
You can traditionally harvest until June 24th. This is the so-called St. John's Day, when the asparagus harvest ends. After that, the plants are given a rest period to recover from the cut. This gives the asparagus stocks the strength they need to sprout next spring.
Create good conditions for a bountiful harvest
Green asparagus is relatively easy to care for. In order for the plants to develop well, they need loose and deep soil. Moisture is also important, so the asparagus plants are happyover a protective layer of mulch. Up to two or three weeks before the harvest period, you can occasionally water the plants with diluted nettle manure. This drives away pests and strengthens the asparagus plants. A sunny location in a sheltered south-facing position is also ideal.
Care after Harvest
In autumn you need to cut off the yellow asparagus leaves. You should then apply a protective layer of mulch or well-rotted manure to the bed. In spring, remove the last wilted parts and carefully work in the top layer along with fresh compost around the plants.