Asparagus, Jersey Giant, Bare Root

Asparagus: Jersey Giant

Description:
Jersey Giant asparagus is a premium hybrid variety celebrated for its vigorous growth, high yields, and cold-hardiness. It produces thick, tender spears that are sweet and flavorful, making it an excellent choice for fresh eating, cooking, or preserving. Known for its long-lived productivity, Jersey Giant is predominantly male, focusing its energy on spear production instead of seed formation, resulting in abundant and consistent harvests.

Key Features:

• Type: Hybrid, predominantly male variety
• Flavor: Mild, sweet, and tender
• Spear Size: Thick, with vibrant green color and slightly purple tips
• Lifespan: Long-lived perennial, productive for 15–20 years
• Hardiness: Cold-hardy, thrives in USDA zones 3–10

Growing Tips:

• Soil: Prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5–7.5). Amend with compost or organic matter for best results.
• Light: Full sun is essential for optimal spear production.
• Planting:
  • Crowns: Plant dormant crowns in early spring, 6–8 inches deep and 12–18 inches apart in trenches spaced 4–5 feet apart.
  • Seeds: Can be started indoors, but planting crowns is recommended for quicker establishment.
• Watering: Keep soil evenly moist during the first year. Mature plants tolerate occasional drought but perform best with consistent moisture.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and after harvest to support vigorous growth and fern development.
• Mulching: Mulch to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect roots during cold winters.

Harvesting:

• Begin light harvesting in the second year after planting crowns (third year if grown from seed).
• Harvest spears when they are 6–8 inches tall, cutting or snapping them just above the soil line.
• Cease harvesting by late spring to allow ferns to grow and recharge the plants for the following year.

Why Grow Jersey Giant Asparagus?

• High Yields: Male plants focus energy on spear production, providing abundant harvests.
• Cold-Hardy: Well-suited for cooler climates, ensuring dependable growth even in challenging conditions.
• Delicious Flavor: Thick, tender spears with a mild sweetness are perfect for fresh eating or cooking.
• Long-Lived: Jersey Giant plants provide years of productivity with minimal maintenance.

Jersey Giant asparagus is a fantastic choice for gardeners seeking a high-performing, delicious, and reliable perennial vegetable. Add it to your garden for years of springtime harvests!