'Asparagus' Jersey Knight General Care Info

General Care Instructions:

Spring: In early spring, once the soil has warmed to around 50°F, plant Jersey Knight asparagus crowns in a well-prepared bed with rich, well-drained soil. Dig trenches about 6-8 inches deep and space the crowns 12-18 inches apart, placing them in the trench with roots spread out. Cover the crowns with 2 inches of soil, gradually filling in the trench as the shoots grow. Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost to promote strong root development and early shoot growth. Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, especially during the establishment phase.

Summer: During the summer months, maintain regular watering to support the growth of the asparagus spears and prevent the soil from drying out. Mulch around the plants with organic material such as straw or compost to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep the soil cool. Jersey Knight asparagus is known for its vigorous growth and resistance to diseases like rust and fusarium, making it a robust choice for home gardeners. Apply a side dressing of compost or a balanced fertilizer to provide additional nutrients, especially if the soil is not naturally rich. Harvest the spears when they are 6-8 inches tall, cutting them at or just below the soil surface.

Fall: In fall, allow the asparagus ferns to grow and turn yellow as they die back naturally. This process stores energy in the roots for the next growing season. Once the foliage has completely died back, cut it down to ground level to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering. Applying a layer of mulch or compost in the fall helps insulate the roots and improves soil fertility for the upcoming season. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall to prevent stimulating new growth that could be damaged by frost.

Winter: During winter, Jersey Knight asparagus crowns remain dormant. Ensure the plants are well-mulched to protect them from extreme cold and temperature fluctuations. The mulch helps prevent frost heaving and keeps the crowns insulated. Avoid disturbing the soil around the crowns to prevent damage. Monitor for signs of overwintering pests such as asparagus beetles, and take appropriate measures to control them if necessary. Winter is also a good time to plan any bed maintenance or improvements needed before the spring growing season.

Tips: Jersey Knight asparagus is prized for its high yield, excellent disease resistance, and ability to thrive in various soil types, including heavier clay soils. This variety is predominantly male, which means it produces larger, more robust spears and fewer seeds. For best results, harvest spears regularly during the first few weeks of the growing season, and avoid overharvesting young plants to ensure they develop strong, healthy root systems. With proper care, Jersey Knight asparagus can provide delicious, tender spears for many years.