asparagus

[SHALOM]

I have planted asparagus for the 1st time, it will not be ready for 2 summers to harvest and will then last for 20 years, but it is long and spindley , do I just chop it down for it to come next year or do I just leave it, it does't say on the packet. thanks in advance

[Clanad]

Oh, no! Don't cut anything until this fall when it all turns brown. Then, if a fern is produced, cut it down and destroy it. Actually, you shouldn't plan on much harvesting until the third year. To do so will weaken the plant. The second year should be devoted to fertilizing and severe control of weeds. Remember, asparagus prefers a pH of about 6.5, so be
sure to apply enough lime to bring the soil
reaction to this figure if needed. Best of luck!
Sha alu Shalom Yerushalyim!

[SHALOM]

Thanks Calnad, I have got some with fern on, shall I cut this off now?

[Clanad]

No... don't cut the fern until it turns yellow or brown in the fall. It is producing the energy to the crown and storage roots for the next year's crop. Additionally, don't fertilize or water excessively after about the first week of August or so. This would encourage new growth of shoots, which turn into ferns and after that date there may not be enough day light and warm weather left and waste the plants energy, as stated, on fern development... Agai... Good Luck!

[SHALOM]

Thanks again Clanad for your advice.