Growing Asparagus at Home in Pots

Growing Asparagus at Home in Pots

Asparagus is a green-colored vegetable. It is one of the first vegetables we get in the spring season. This vegetable is specially grown in summers and spring because in these seasons it’s more tender and tasty. Asparagus is known for its splendor spears. Asparagus comes from the Asparagaceae family. More than 200 species are present in this family. Some plants grow as eatable others are used by florists in arrangement and corsages. Growing Asparagus

Asparagus is very rich in some vitamins like vitamin B and vitamin C, calcium, and iron making it a very healthy vegetable and therefore it can be added to any meal. Growing Asparagus In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s my plate guidelines this is the most nutritionally balanced vegetable. Asparagus is free of fat, sodium, and cholesterol and packed with many key nutrients. Growing Asparagus

Now, let’s discuss some benefits of asparagus now, and then we will see how to plant asparagus at home. Growing Asparagus

Health Benefits of asparagus

High nutrients, low calories: Asparagus has very few calories but a lot of nutrients. For a fact, just 90 grams of cooked asparagus contains:

Calories: 20

Protein: 2.2 grams

Fat: 0.2 grams

Fiber: 1.8 grams

Vitamin C: 12% of the RDI

Vitamin A: 18% of the RDI

Vitamin K: 57% of the RDI

Folate: 34% of the RDI

Potassium: 6% of the RDI

Phosphorous: 5% of the RDI

Vitamin E: 7% of the RDI

This vegetable also has some amount of other micronutrients including zinc, iron, and riboflavin.

Very good source of antioxidants: Antioxidants are actually the compound that protects human cells from harmful radicals and oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is quite dangerous as it can contribute to aging, chronic inflammation, and many diseases including cancer. Growing Asparagus

Improve digestive system: Asparagus is rich in fiber. And dietary fiber is essential for good digestive health. Also, asparagus promotes regularity. And also this vegetable may reduce the risk of heart diseases, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Growing Asparagus

Helps in healthy pregnancy: Folate also known as vitamin B9 is an essential nutrient needed to form red blood cells and also produce DNA for healthy growth and development. This is very important especially at the start of the pregnancy as it ensures that the healthy development of the baby is taking place. Asparagus is high in folate so it’s preferred to be included in the diet of pregnant women. Growing Asparagus

Home in Pots

Helps to control blood pressure: 1.3 billion people in this world suffer from high blood pressure and this is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. According to researchers and doctors, potassium is highly suggested to lower blood pressure as it releases the wall of blood vessels and excretes excess salt through urine. And apparently, asparagus also contains potassium and one other mineral also that help lower high blood pressure. Also by research on animals, it’s found out that asparagus contains another mineral that dilates blood vessels, lowering the blood pressure. Growing Asparagus

Can help to lose weight: There is no proper result from the research that asparagus help in loose weight but according to the theory, asparagus has very low calories and rich fiber also its high water content. Growing Asparagus

Methods of propagating asparagus at home

Asparagus can be grown by two methods i.e. by seeds or offsets. Growing asparagus from shoots is common and mostly used as it nearly takes about one year to grow but the method of seeds is a slow one as it takes two years or more than that to grow. Growing Asparagus

Let’s see how to grow asparagus from the offset method: This is the easiest way to grow asparagus as whenever the plant slows down the production of shoots, then take the roots, cut them into separate pieces, and plant separately directly in the plants. Within a year asparagus will grow from the shoots.

Growing asparagus in the pot from seeds: Asparagus shoot produces red berries when they turn to fern at the end of the growing season and red berries contain seeds. Growing asparagus from seeds need a warm climate. Growing Asparagus

To remove the seeds from berries, crush the berries into the pulp, identify the seeds and after collecting them, soak them in warm water and then dry them for few days. As we all know, seeds can be always stored. So store the seeds indoors till the time you are ready to sow them. The preferable time for sowing is springtime. But growing asparagus can take more than two years. So, this method is not very much preferred. Growing Asparagus

Requirement for growing asparagus in pots:

For growing pots, the offset method is preferable as it will increase the rate of success. For healthy growth, take high-yielding male asparagus plant variety. Asparagus can’t be grown in small pots, so select a large container, a container that can at least store 20 gallons of soil. Also, the container should have a good drainage system i.e. at least 2-3 holes. It is advised that the material of the container should be clay, terra cotta, wood, or plastic if you can manage to have adequate drainage holes. If you choose to use clay pots then remember that it will dry out quickly and if you want to use a plastic container then paint it with a light color. Growing Asparagus

The ideal season for growing asparagus: Asparagus is a cool-season crop and grows well in regions that have a cold temperature. But for growing in pots, spring could be the ideal season. Growing Asparagus

The ideal temperature for growing asparagus: Asparagus is sensitive to temperature. It grows best in very low temperatures i.e. 15- 25 degrees in the daytime and 10-15 degrees at nighttime. To produce shoots from the soil, the needed temperature is above 15 degrees, and the growth of the plant increases with increasing temperature. If you want to germinate from seeds quickly, then keep the plant at a 10-degree temperature and seeds will germinate in 50 – 55 days. Growing Asparagus

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Steps for growing asparagus in pots by offset method:

• Asparagus needs a very fertile, well-drained, and non-acidic soil full of organic matter. The pH level of soil should be 6.5-7.5. Growing Asparagus
• Choose the desired pot and cover the draining holes with a thin layer of gravel or fine mesh. This actually avoids the dripping of soil and waterlogging. Growing Asparagus
• Now, fill the pot with enriched potting soil, and in the center make an 8-inches deep hole for letting the roots expand. Then in that center hole, add some well-rotted manure or compost then lay the roots of the offset in the middle of the hole, and later on, cover it with soil. Growing Asparagus
• Then water the plant until it starts dripping out from the drainage hole. And keep the plant moist at all times. And once the shoot starts to appear, feed the plant once or twice with all-purpose fertilizer and compost. Growing Asparagus

Harvesting and storage tips:

• When asparagus shoot is grown 6-10 inches then that means, they are ready to be harvested.
• Make sure that shoots should be harvested or cut down before the flower buds are open.
• In case there is fewer yields, then don’t harvest it and wait till next season to harvest it.
• To store asparagus, you need a glass or container with 2-3 inches of water and also a refrigerator as asparagus to well in cold conditions.

FAQ

1. What is asparagus and why is it a good plant to grow at home?

A. Asparagus is a popular vegetable that is prized for its delicate flavor and tender texture. It is also a long-lived perennial plant that can provide a harvest for several years. Growing asparagus at home in pots is a great way to enjoy fresh, homegrown produce without taking up too much space.

2. What kind of pot is best for growing asparagus?

A. The best pot for growing asparagus should be at least 18-24 inches deep and have drainage holes in the bottom to allow excess water to escape. A pot made of a material that retains moisture, such as terracotta, is ideal.

3. What soil is best for growing asparagus in pots?

A. Asparagus prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A good potting mix is essential for growing asparagus in pots. Look for a mix that contains peat moss, compost, and perlite or vermiculite.

4. What type of asparagus should I grow in a pot?

A. There are two main types of asparagus, male and female. Male plants are typically more productive and have better flavor, so they are the best choice for growing in pots.

5. How do I care for asparagus plants growing in pots?

A. Asparagus plants growing in pots need regular watering, especially during dry periods. They also need full sun and adequate nutrition, so be sure to feed them regularly with a balanced, organic fertilizer.

6. When can I harvest asparagus from plants growing in pots?

A. Asparagus plants should be left to grow for 2-3 years before harvesting to allow them to establish strong roots. Once they are ready, you can harvest asparagus spears in the spring, before the fern-like leaves emerge.

7. Are there any pests or diseases to look out for when growing asparagus in pots?

A. Asparagus can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as rust, if grown in too much shade or if the soil is kept too moist. Regularly inspecting your plants and practicing good cultural practices, such as proper watering and ventilation, can help prevent problems. Additionally, using an organic fungicide can be helpful in preventing and treating fungal diseases.