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Asparagus

Posted: Mon Nov 09, 2015 4:43 pm
by M11064
I planted asparagus for the first time earlier this year. What should I do with the fawns this Autumn. Should I cut them down to the ground? If so when?

Re: Asparagus

Posted: Mon Nov 09, 2015 6:23 pm
by Westi
I chop my down when they go yellow - they've done their job & fed the crown so chop them down. Clear all the weeds out of the bed and top it with well rotted compost - or if you can access it some seaweed. They are a coastal margin plant & it matches their natural habitat.

I'm still trying to redeem myself with seaweed in the car after the crab adventure :oops: , but read an article by Sarah Raven that she throws some dishwasher salt over her asparagus bed so
may try that myself.

Westi

Re: Asparagus

Posted: Mon Nov 09, 2015 6:56 pm
by Pa Snip
Exactly what westi said.

(except I would avoid having to explain how you got crabs in a car :) )

edit early hours 10-11-15
As an afterthought this morning I am wondering why use dish washer salt when you could use calcified seaweed. Can't be much difference in cost surely, calcified seaweed probably a bit more expensive but fit for purpose..
I seem to recall reading somewhere that too much salt is not good on growing grounds.

Re: Asparagus

Posted: Tue Nov 10, 2015 4:38 pm
by PLUMPUDDING
Asparagus is a coastal plant originally so likes slightly saline growing conditions so will do ok with a seaweed mulch if you have any. I cut mine down when they turn yellow. They are quite late this year.