Edibles – Asparagus

Botanical name: asparagus officinalis

Beginner friendly?: no

Average size at maturity: can reach heights of 3-5 ft tall

Harvest time: spring-summer

Hardy zone: zones 4-10

Flower color: yellow

Foliage color: green

Growth rate: takes about 3 years to mature to the point of producing a harvest every year

Pruning instructions: remove discolored or damaged parts as needed

Propagation methods: division in the spring or fall

Landscape use: vegetable garden

Light needs: at least 6 hours of sun per day

Special features: rich in vitamine C and vitamine K, salt tolerant

Watering instructions: only water when the soil feels dry to the touch

Fertilizing instructions : apply 10-10-10 in the early spring before new growth emerges

Best time to plant: spring

Best type of soil: loam

Companion plants: basil, parsley, cilantro, tomatoes

Toxicity level: non-toxic for humans and pets

Invasive species: no