Hi, Thanks for answering my last question. I have one more to ask on this topic. I understand that asparagus need lots of nitrogen and phosphorus. Someone recommended Preen for fertilizing and weed prevention. Should the Preen be tilled into the soil before planting the asparagus? |
If you carefully prepare the planting bed, there will be no need for Preen. Here's how: To prepare a bed for asparagus crowns, till an area about four feet wide and as long as you wish, at least 10 to 12 inches deep. Spread 3 to 4 inches of organic matter over the area and add manure at the rate of 1/2 pound per square foot. Add a complete fertilizer such as 10-20-10 at the rate of 1/2 pound per 100 square feet of bed area. Dig this in, level the area, and then plant your asparagus crowns. After planting, spread another 2-3 inches of organic matter on the bare soil and around the asparagus crowns. This mulch will suppress weeds and slow water evaportation. To answer your question about Preen, there are several products with the Preen label so be sure you purchase the one formulated for use in vegetable gardens (Preen Vegetable Garden Weed Preventer). It is an organic weed control product and needs to be reapplied every 3-4 weeks. Read and follow the label directions and your asparagus bed should be weed free. |