Perennial Vegetables: Asparagus

The difference between store-bought and fresh-from-the-garden asparagus is as dramatic as that difference in tomatoes. Yet, many few gardeners attempt to grow asparagus. That’s a shame. Once established, asparagus plants are easy to maintain and return bigger and better each year. Here is a little about growing asparagus:

* Asparagus plants thrive in growing zones 4-10, planted in full sun

* A plant takes about three years to produce spears large enough to eat

* If not harvested, asparagus stalks turn into feathery fern-like foliage

* Asparagus is a good source of dietary fiber, folic acid, and potassium

* Recipes for asparagus have been found in writings from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome

* Asparagus is reputed to be an aphrodisiac

* Asparagus is native in most of Europe, northern Africa, and western Asia

(photo credit: stock xchng)