'Asparagus' Purple Passion General Care Info

General Care Instructions:

Spring: In early spring, once the soil has warmed, plant Purple Passion 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. Cover the crowns with 2 inches of soil, gradually filling in the trench as the shoots grow. Apply a balanced fertilizer to encourage strong root development and early shoot growth. Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. 

Summer: During the summer months, continue 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. Asparagus is a heavy feeder, so consider applying a side dressing of compost or a balanced fertilizer to provide additional nutrients. Harvest the spears when they are 6-8 inches tall and before the tips start to open, usually about two years after planting for a full harvest.

Fall: In fall, allow the asparagus foliage (ferns) to grow and store energy in the roots for the next growing season. The ferns will turn yellow as they die back; this is normal and indicates the plant is entering dormancy. Once the foliage has completely died back, cut it down to ground level to prevent overwintering pests and diseases. Apply a layer of mulch or compost to insulate the roots and improve soil fertility for the next season.

Winter: During winter, Purple Passion asparagus crowns remain dormant. Ensure the plants are well-mulched to protect them from extreme cold and temperature fluctuations. 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. Plan for any bed maintenance or improvements to be done before spring planting to give your asparagus the best start for the new growing season.

Tips: Purple Passion asparagus is known for its sweeter flavor and tender texture compared to green varieties. The spears also tend to be less fibrous. When harvesting, snap the spears off at ground level rather than cutting them to reduce the risk of damaging the crowns. Additionally, this variety turns green when cooked, so for visual appeal, it can be used raw in salads or lightly steamed to retain its purple color.