Richard Jauron - From the Master Gardener, Woodbury County Extension
Early spring (as soon as the soil can be worked in late March or
April) is the best time to plant a new asparagus bed. Since a
well-maintained asparagus planting may remain productive for 15 to
20 years, carefully consider possible sites. The site should
receive full sunlight. Stay away from shady areas near buildings or
large trees. Soil drainage is another important consideration.
Asparagus prefers well-drained soils. In poorly drained sites, the
plants eventually may die. A location at the north or east edge of
the vegetable garden usually is a good site.
Asparagus usually is established by planting asparagus crowns.
Suggested varieties for Iowa include 'Jersey Giant,' 'Jersey
Knight,' 'Jersey King,' 'Mary Washington' and 'Purple Passion.'
Asparagus crowns are planted in shallow trenches or furrows. The
planting depth depends on the soil type. The crowns may be planted
6 to 8 inches deep in light, sandy soils, but only 4 inches deep in
heavier soils. A small amount of manure can be worked into the soil
in the bottom of the trench before planting. Space the crowns 12 to
18 inches apart within the row. Rows should be spaced 4 to 5 feet
apart. Spread the roots out in the trench with the buds pointing
upward. Finally, completely fill in the furrows. (Though a common
practice, it is not necessary to gradually fill in the furrows as
the asparagus plants grow.)
When should I apply a preemergence herbicide to my
lawn? Preemergence herbicides are primarily applied to
lawns to control crabgrass. Crabgrass is a warm season, annual
grass. It is a common weed in lawns and gardens. Crabgrass seeds
germinate over several weeks from spring to early summer.
The keys to successful control of crabgrass in lawns are correct
timing of the preemergence herbicide application and proper
application of the material. Preemergence herbicides must be
applied before the crabgrass seeds germinate. If the material is
applied too early, crabgrass seeds that germinate late in the
season will not be controlled. If applied too late, some crabgrass
seeds will have already germinated.
