Purple Passion Asparagus Plant - 2-3 Year Crowns - 10-Pack

Purple Passion Asparagus produces large, colorful spears so tender you can eat them right out of the garden! Along with its distinctive coloring, it also offers more sweetness, iron, protein, and vitamin C than green varieties. When cooked, the spears will lose their coloring but not their flavor. Purple Passion is low maintenance, disease resistant, and both cold hardy and heat tolerant, making it an excellent choice for first-time asparagus growers. Ready for some fresh asparagus? Many of our 2 - 3 year-old sized crowns will produce harvestable spears the same year you plant them! 

Planting Instructions:

• - Plant crowns in spring
• - Plant crowns 12-18 inches apart in trenches 6-8 inches deep

Soil Preparation:

• - Ideal soil pH: 6.5-7.0
• - Well-drained, fertile soil rich in organic matter

Watering Specifics:

• - Water deeply and regularly during the first two years
• - Once established, water during dry spells

Fertilizer Type:

• - Apply balanced fertilizer in early spring
• - Side-dress with compost after harvest

Pruning and Training:

• - Cut back dead foliage in late fall

Pollination:

• - Not necessary for spear production

Additional Pest Management:

• - Watch for asparagus beetles and cutworms
• - Use organic insecticides if pest problems persist

Harvesting Indicators:

• - Harvest spears when they're 6-8 inches tall and about as thick as your finger
• - Stop harvesting as the spears become tough and the tops start opening

Storage:

• - Store fresh spears in the refrigerator for up to a week
• - Can be frozen or pickled for longer storage

Companion Plants:

• - Tomatoes: Repel asparagus beetles
• - Parsley: Attracts beneficial insects
• - Basil: Improves growth and flavor