[Jackypam]

Asparagus help please. My asparagus has been in for 2 years and they were 2 year old crowns when they went in.  They are in a raised bed, but it isn't very raised to be honest as I was quite short of topsoil when I made it.  Assuming they have survived the raised swimming pool effect of this winter, can I put on a heavy mulch of home compost to raise it a bit more in case this winter is also wet?  If so, how thick dare  I make it and is now a good time?

[Hampshire Hog]

Can't see they would mind some mulch it's still a while till we'll have any spears. It will delay the time you get the crop a bit I think and won't actually raise the asparagus crowns of course just the soil level.
Hope your crowns survived this winters drowning I have my fingers crossed for mine!

Cheers HH

[JayG]

Agree with HH - the crowns won't move upwards away from the water, although any organic matter added as a mulch which becomes incorporated into the soil will help with future drainage - no point overdoing it at this stage, especially as your asparagus won't have enjoyed being waterlogged this winter and may not have come through it (it's a pretty long-suffering plant though, so good luck.  )

[fatcat1955]

Asparagus benefits from a mulch of rotted manure every year.

[Jackypam]

I was hopeful that they may develop some roots a bit higher that might help them to survive. Never mind I'll mulch with manure mixed with some of my compost.  Will a couple of inches be ok?

[JayG]

Yes, a couple of inches is ample, especially at this time of year - asparagus roots only grow downwards from the crown I'm afraid, although they are extraordinarily good at it!!

[Jackypam]

Thanks JayG