Failing asparagus

[hilary]

Hi,
Advice needed- the asparagus I planted this year is really struggling. I thought I kept it well watered during the dry spell and now some spears are just dying. I thought it may be slugs chewing on the stems but not all look damaged. Only a few of the fronds are coming into leaf and their stems look healthy but I would have thought it would have been taller by now. Prepared the bed really well before planting with old manure and sand on a ridge.
Help - what have I done wrong Johnboy!
Regards
Hilary

[Tigger]

According to our local paper, this has been the best year for asparagus in 30 years! The farmer writing the article says that asparagus doesn't like it too cold or too wet, so the mild winter and warm spring have been perfect conditions.

I wonder if you're expecting too much from your first shoots? I don't remember ours being particularly robust in years one and two. No doubt JB will have an answer.

[hilary]

Thanks Tigger - wasn't expecting a lot just for them to survive! About 20% is actually shrivelling up and dying.......

[Malk]

a couple of mine have done that, but then bounced back later in the season.

[darrenc]

Dear Hilary dont worry,dont panic as mine did the same 3 years ago when i planted my asparagus bed.
this year is the year the first proper cropping season and what a crop it is.Let your crowns settle in and water as appropriate they should be ok.

[hilary]

Thanks for reassurance - will stop looking at them daily!
Hilary