Easter Asparagus Tips

Typically spring marks the start of the gardening season, and many things mark the start of spring.  There is the traditional planting of potatoes after a thaw, the majestic rebirth of Daffodil bulbs and bamboo shoots around yard, and the activity of honey bees.  There are cherry blossoms, the occasional discovery of a morel mushrooms, and, of course, the ceremonious first lawn mowing of the year.  But, my most favorite sign of spring is probably the spotting of the first tip of asparagus in the garden.

Asparagus is also one of my favorite garden plants.  It tastes wonderful cooked or raw, is universally enjoyed in our family, preserves well, and comes out early in the season when everyone is especially yearning for something fresh.  Best of all, asparagus doesn't need to be reseeded.  It just keeps giving, year after year.

Our first asparagus tip this year was spotted on Easter Sunday.  We will let the tips grow to 9- to 12-inch spears before harvesting.  In the mean time, these tender tips will serve as a form of motivation while we finish weeding, tilling, and planting this spring.

 

First young asparagus tip emerges

next to last year's dry stocks.