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They're the pride of the Low Countries. They can be prepared in countless ways. And once you've acquired a taste for them, you'll look forward to them every year. Personally, I prefer them in a clarified butter sauce with hard-boiled egg, fresh parsley, and fresh North Sea shrimp. A glass of fresh, crisp, aromatic wine (Sauvignon Blanc, Torrontes, dry Muscat, etc.) and my day—or rather, my week—couldn't be better. I love asparagus; I have a vegetable garden, but I buy mine at the store... High time to do something about that and grow my own.
White and green, what's the difference?
The plants for white and green asparagus are the same. White asparagus develops through a process of etiolation, a complex term for light obstruction. It's the same process as with chicory and celery. We build a mound of soil on top of the asparagus plant. The asparagus thus makes its way in the dark until it's ready to be harvested. In the dark, the plant can't produce chlorophyll, so it doesn't turn green. Green asparagus has a brighter flavor, while white asparagus is milder and more delicate.
Growing Asparagus: Sowing or Planting?
You can grow asparagus in two ways: sowing or planting. If you sow, you must wait at least three years before eating the first spear. If you plant, you can eat it after two years. This article discusses planting asparagus. You can buy asparagus roots in our webshop .
The plant resembles a giant spider with many legs. You can read how to plant it below.
Asparagus location
Asparagus prefers a sunny spot and well-drained soil. Make sure they're not planted in a spot where water accumulates in winter, as this would prevent oxygen from reaching the roots. Because asparagus plants remain in the same location for about 10 years, a good location is crucial.
