[PennyS]

Hello Peeps

I hope you are all enjoying a nice relaxing Christmas.
 
I'm going to spend the evening planning out my new plot properly for next year and I've decided to put in an asparagus bed.  Question is, which variety? 

I'm currently thinking of Pacific, but would appreciate advice from more experienced asparagus growers.  I will allow space for 30 plants, so could grow two varieties (if that wouldn't be a problem) - or I could put in two separate beds.

It was fantastic yesterday eating new potatoes and beetroot dug from the allotment on Christmas Eve (August sowing).  Looking forward to next year's Christmas dinner when ALL the veg will have come from the allotment.

Have a good one!
Penny 

[Chiswickian]

Hi Penny
This response is probably not going to be very helpful BUT I know the RHS are currently conducting a trialof newer types of asparagus including Pacific 2000. If you search their website you may find interim results but I think they are not due to report fully until later this year.
Ian

[PennyS]

Thank you Ian,
That is really helpful.  I shall investigate.  It was Pacific 2000 that I saw in the Organic Garden catalogue.
Many thanks!
Penny 

[Chiswickian]

Though I would add I planted Pacific 2000 a few years ago and took a light crop this last year - delicious!!
I'm looking forward to the season in May for sure
Ian

[Trillium]

Most varieties are quite nice if you take the cuttings before the tops begin to spread open. But I've found that with female varieties which set seeds, the yield is less so I'm now searching here for an all male variety called Jersey Giant which is both high yielding and tender. Not sure if its available in the UK. The last 2 years my local grower has quickly sold out so I'm trying again this year.

[PennyS]

Thank you Trillium.  I know the Organic Gardening Catalogue does Jersey Knight seeds, is that at all similar? I haven't seen Jersey Giant anywhere from UK suppliers. Shame, it looks good.

Having done much more reading, I'm now torn between Pacific 2000 and Backlim. Mmm need to decide.  I've decided that whatever I do, I'm going to put in a decent sized bed.  If I've got to wait 3 years then I want to have lots and lots to eat in years 3 - 20 
Penny

[Salmo]

All male varieties are best. They are more productive and you do not get a problem with seedlings from berries. If you plant 2 year old crowns a light picking can be taken in the first year. Asparagus from seed takes at least 3 years before harvest and you always get 50% females.

There is plenty of advice here   
http://www.asparagus-in-kent.co.uk

[Jilly Pickles]

I have grown from seed, did get an excellent crop the 3rd year.

Jersey  Knight F1 All male from Tuckers.