Growing Asparagus Between Existing Shrubs A Comprehensive Guide

Asparagus is a delicious and versatile vegetable known for its tender, succulent shoots that are a favourite in many kitchens. While it’s typically grown in dedicated garden beds, did you know that you can successfully cultivate asparagus in between existing shrubs? This unique gardening approach not only maximises your available space but also adds a touch of greenery to your shrubbery, creating a harmonious and functional garden. In this article, we will guide you through the process of growing asparagus between your existing shrubs.

Step 1: Choose the Right Location

Before you start planting asparagus between your shrubs, it’s essential to select the right location within your garden. Asparagus thrives in well-draining, sunny spots, so make sure the area you choose receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Additionally, ensure that the shrubs already present in the area do not cast excessive shade, as asparagus requires ample sunlight to grow successfully.

Step 2: Prepare the Soil

Asparagus plants demand well-prepared, fertile soil to produce healthy spears. Start by clearing any debris, weeds, or unwanted plants from the selected area. Then, work on improving the soil quality. You can do this by:

a. Amending the soil with organic matter: Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to enhance its fertility and water retention capacity.

b. Testing and adjusting the pH: Asparagus prefers a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (around 6.5-7.0). Conduct a soil test and make necessary amendments to achieve the right pH balance.

c. Ensure good drainage: Asparagus dislikes waterlogged conditions. To prevent this, consider adding sand or organic material to improve drainage.

Step 3: Select the Asparagus Varieties

There are both male and female asparagus plants, with male varieties being preferred by many gardeners due to their higher productivity. Select disease-resistant varieties suitable for your climate and growing conditions. Common male asparagus varieties include ‘Jersey Knight’ and ‘Jersey Giant.’

Step 4: Planting Asparagus

Planting asparagus involves creating trenches or furrows between your existing shrubs. Here’s how to do it:

a. Dig trenches: Make trenches or furrows about 12-18 inches deep and 12-18 inches wide, leaving enough space between your shrubs.

b. Add fertiliser: Sprinkle a balanced, slow-release fertiliser into the trenches and mix it into the soil.

c. Plant asparagus crowns: Place the asparagus crowns (young plants with roots) in the trenches, spacing them 12-18 inches apart. Cover them with 2-3 inches of soil.

d. Water thoroughly: After planting, water the asparagus crowns generously to settle the soil and provide them with adequate moisture.

Step 5: Maintain Your Asparagus Bed

Growing asparagus between shrubs requires consistent care and maintenance to ensure a bountiful harvest. Here are some essential tasks:

a. Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch like straw or compost to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate temperature.

b. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Asparagus typically requires around 1-2 inches of water per week.

c. Fertilising: Asparagus benefits from periodic feedings with a balanced fertiliser during the growing season. Such as Growmore fertiliser 

d. Pruning: Remove any dead or yellowing ferns (foliage) in the fall to prevent disease and pests from overwintering.

Step 6: Harvesting Asparagus

Patience is key when growing asparagus. You shouldn’t harvest any spears during the first year to allow the plants to establish themselves. In the second year, you can start harvesting a few spears, and by the third year, you can enjoy a full harvest season. To harvest, snap or cut the spears when they reach 6-8 inches in length.

Growing asparagus between existing shrubs is a creative and space-efficient gardening technique that can yield delicious results. By selecting the right location, preparing the soil, choosing the appropriate asparagus varieties, and providing consistent care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of fresh asparagus while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your garden. With patience and dedication, your asparagus bed nestled among your shrubs will thrive for years to come.