Organic Asparagus 'Vitalim' (white asparagus)

Organic White Asparagus Claws

The Asparagus 'Vitalim' is an asparagus plant suitable for growing white asparagus. When growing white asparagus, it is crucial to cover the asparagus claws with a thick layer of soil during the growing season, also known as an asparagus ridge. This process, called "earthing up" or "blanching," is essential to prevent the asparagus from turning green due to sunlight exposure. In the dark, the plant does not produce chlorophyll, keeping it white. White asparagus is softer and has a milder flavor compared to green asparagus. Asparagus contains nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid, and fiber, and is also a good source of antioxidants.

Edible

The asparagus from the Bloemoloog's plants is intended for consumption. Asparagus can be prepared in various ways, including roasting, grilling, steaming, boiling, or even eaten raw.

Click here for a delicious recipe from Chef Alain of Binnenstebuiten TV.

How, Where, and When to Plant Asparagus Claws?

The ideal time to plant white asparagus claws is early spring, when the soil has warmed up but before the asparagus starts its active growth phase. Dig trenches about 15 to 20 centimeters deep. Leave at least 1 meter of space between the trenches. Place the asparagus claws in the trench with the buds facing upwards. Leave about 30 to 45 centimeters of space between each claw. Cover the claws with about 5 to 8 centimeters of soil. Begin gradually adding soil to the trench or bed where the asparagus claws are planted. Do this as the asparagus grows, and keep filling the trench until it reaches about 20 to 30 cm above the original ground level.

If you only have one asparagus to try, plant it at the same depth as described above, but without the trench.

Water the asparagus beds thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil and give the asparagus a good start. Consider mulching the beds to retain moisture, reduce weed growth, and stabilize the soil temperature.

Location

Asparagus 'Vitalim' thrives best in full sun in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Sandy soil is ideal, but light loamy soil is also suitable. Avoid heavy clay soils.

Care for the Asparagus Plant

Asparagus requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. Water deeply to ensure the roots remain well-hydrated. When the plant has completely died off in the fall, cut the remnants down to the ground to prevent pests and diseases.

Asparagus beds can last for decades if properly maintained. Continue to feed the plants and ensure good soil health.

For organic potting soil, plant food, and other soil enhancers, we recommend Bio Kultura!

Harvesting White Asparagus

Begin harvesting only in the second year after planting the asparagus claws. In the first year, it is important to allow the plants to grow and become stronger.

White asparagus should be harvested when it has reached a height of about 20-25 centimeters. This is when it is still growing underground and retains its characteristic white color. The harvest season for white asparagus is from March to June, which is shorter than that for green asparagus.

Harvesting white asparagus, which grows underground, requires care and precision to avoid damaging the stems. Use a special asparagus digger or knife. This tool is designed to cut the asparagus underground without damaging the roots or other stems.

Carefully push the soil around the asparagus aside with your hands to locate the bud. The asparagus bud is located at the top of the stem. Place the asparagus digger or knife about 15 to 20 centimeters underground, near the base of the stem, and carefully cut through the stem. Cut at an angle, just below the asparagus bud. Gently pull the cut asparagus upwards from the ground. Ensure the length of the stem remains intact.

Continue harvesting the white asparagus until all mature stems have been harvested. Since white asparagus is only harvested once a year, it is important to be careful and not damage the plants.

After harvesting the asparagus, refill the hole in the ground using a rake or just by hand.

Propagating Asparagus Plants

Asparagus claws can become thicker over time. You can choose to split older plants to obtain new root cuttings. Replant the root cuttings in the desired location.

Origin of Asparagus

Asparagus is an ancient vegetable that has been cultivated for thousands of years. The origin of asparagus is likely in the coastal regions of Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans were familiar with asparagus and valued it for both culinary and medicinal reasons. Asparagus was considered a delicacy and was believed to have healing properties, such as a positive effect on the kidneys.

Asparagus spread throughout Europe over time. Roman emperors were said to have grown asparagus, and this practice continued in medieval and later times.

Buy Organic Asparagus 'Vitalim'

Skal NL-BIO-01 certified: 109459

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Stacking discount: B

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Characteristics

NL-BIO-01