Asparagus from seed

[Finley]

Hi all,

I'm hoping for some advice about where to go next with my asparagus. I have fourteen spindly seedlings (from 40 seeds!) and the outline of a raised bed which I plan to fill with one part horticultural sand to two parts compost for drainage.. I've attached pics of the seedlings and of the bed/sand etc. I've been propping them up as they look a bit wobbly and bendy, was planning to put them out in June but should I wait that long or just put them in now in case they all keel over? Got netting at the ready to stop the cat digging them up (he's already killed one of my tiny artichokes by 'fighting' it. Any guidance most welcome!

[Guest]

I can only tell you what I have done unfortunately, as I followed Kristens advice https://kgarden.wordpress.com/projec...table-patch/3/ I sowed mine last year potted on into 2L pots with slow release and I planted them out into their bed last month on raised mounds of sand.

[Finley]

Great link, thanks! Not sure I have enough pots but will see what I can do..

[vixylix]

They're looking much less floppy than mine - mine look like skinny caterpillars

[Finley]

Update on the skinny seedlings - I've been waiting for the first spears as Ariane is supposed to be a swift developer, and they've SPROUTED. I would be thrilled except they're pretty small. Tiny. Like skinnier and smaller than a toothpick. Perfectly formed and would be impressive through a telescope, but more dolls house than delicious. Any ideas why this is happening? The bed has spent the winter under a seaweed duvet and leaf mould, and I gave it a seaweed drink a week or so ago. Are they forever doomed to tininess or is there something I should be doing? Very grateful for any advice.. And yes you can laugh if you want to!

[Bigmallly]

I would imagine as it is their first year they would be small. Don't pick any spears this year & see what happens next...........I bought crowns with 2ft long roots & covered with 4" leafmold, I only have one pencil thick spear showing but won't be picking any this year.

[Finley]

Ah thanks. I'll put my enthusiasm on a back burner until next year then.. Your crowns look pretty impressive!

[Bigmallly]

They were humongous..............I'm hoping the yields will justify their size in years to come.