How to manage asparagus in winter?

Asparagus prefers a warm, cool and humid growing environment and has strong adaptability to soil. Although it is relatively simple to grow, the low temperature and dry climate in winter still poses a considerable challenge to the growth of asparagus. So, how to manage asparagus in winter? Let’s learn more about it below.

1. Garden cleaning and disinfection

In winter, the above-ground part of asparagus will wither, so the garden needs to be thoroughly cleaned, dead branches and leaves removed, and burned in a concentrated manner. After cleaning the garden, soil disinfection is necessary to reduce pathogens and control the occurrence of diseases. You can spray chlorothalonil or carbendazim and other drugs

2. Prune branches and leaves

When the asparagus leaves gradually turn yellow in winter, the branches and leaves should be cut directly above the roots, leaving 5-6 cm above the ground to reduce nutrient consumption and concentrate supply on the root system.

3. Good coverage

You can cover the roots of asparagus with a layer of plastic film or straw, stalks, etc. to keep them warm and moisturized.

4. Apply winter fertilizer

Apply winter fertilizer twice, at the "Beginning of Winter" and "Winter Solstice" respectively, with organic fertilizer as the main ingredient. Each time, use 1000-2000 kg of soil and miscellaneous fertilizer, 100-200 kg of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus, and 20-30 kg of ammonium bicarbonate per mu, mixed with peanut cake, bone meal, etc.

5. Water management

In winter, water evaporates slowly and the water requirement is not large, but the soil still needs to be kept moderately moist. Especially after a period of continuous sunny weather, you should check the soil moisture and water if necessary to prevent the asparagus roots from over-drying out.

6. Cultivate the soil to prevent cold

Bury the soil in the planting ditch and cultivate the soil. Generally, the soil should be about 15 cm high. The last cultivation should be completed after watering with frozen water, which will help the asparagus to survive the winter.

7. Pest and disease control

The main diseases and pests of asparagus in winter include stem blight and aphids. Appropriate prevention and control measures should be taken, such as lowering the groundwater level, applying less nitrogen fertilizer, increasing the application of phosphorus fertilizer and soil fertilizer, and using appropriate pesticides for spraying prevention and control. For example, stem blight can be controlled by spraying 70% thiophanate-methyl or 50% carbendazim at a dilution of 600-800 times. Aphids can be controlled by spraying 1000 times diluted 50% chlorpyrifos emulsifiable concentrate or 1000 times diluted 10% imidacloprid wettable powder .

The above is an introduction to the key points of winter management of asparagus. Through these management measures, we can ensure the safe wintering of asparagus and lay a good foundation for high, stable and high-quality yields in the coming year.