Green Asparagus
- OSF Orto
History
Historically, asparagus dates back to the first century. Ancient Greece and Rome had records of it growing. It is said that asparagus was used therapeutically by the Egyptians over 2,000 years ago.
As with all vegetables, asparagus was first discovered in the wild. Wild asparagus has thinner shoots than a pencil and is much different from the asparagus you find in your grocery store.
Facts About Green Asparagus
- Your urine stinks when you eat asparagus, but only some people are able to smell it.
- According to Greeks and Romans, 2,500 years ago, asparagus treats bee string and toothaches.
- Asparagus plant will reproduce for up to 20 consecutive years!
Health Benefits
The vitamins, fiber, and minerals in asparagus can provide serious health benefits. For example, vitamin A is essential for the health of your eyes. It helps your eyes lubricate themselves and feeds your corneas and retinas. Other health benefits of asparagus are better digestion, prenatal health, and blood clotting.
Asparagus is a good source of folate, potassium, and vitamins A, C, K, and E.
When to Plant Green Asparagus
Green asparagus is a popular crop in Tuscany. Asparagus is a perennial plant that returns year after year. It is important to choose a location with well-drained, fertile soil, and plenty of sun exposure for optimal asparagus growth.
Early in spring, when the soil is workable, plant asparagus crowns. Usually, asparagus is grown from crowns, which are 1-year-old plants, but seeds can also be grown.
Harvesting
It is recommended that you skip harvesting in the first and second years if possible. In order to allow the crowns to fully establish, wait three growing seasons before harvesting.
Asparagus can be harvested by cutting the spears at ground level with a sharp knife or scissors. Fertilize your asparagus in early summer after harvesting.
Companion Plants for Green Asparagus
Tomatoes, eggplant, basil, parsley, and coriander are the companion plants for green asparagus.
Summary
Asparagus dates back to the first century and was used therapeutically by the Egyptians over 2,000 years ago. It is a perennial plant that returns year after year and can provide health benefits such as vitamin A, folate, potassium, and vitamins A, C, K, and E. It is important to choose a location with well-drained, fertile soil, and plenty of sun exposure for optimal growth. Harvesting is done by cutting the spears at ground level with a sharp knife or scissors. Companion plants for green asparagus include tomatoes, eggplant, basil, parsley, and coriander.
