Problem Identifier Unit Screen//v.w/ RR Template

Problem Identifier Unit Screen//v.w/ RR Template Crooked Spears

Problem
Spears are crooked or misshapen.

Analysis
Asparagus spears grow crooked when the growing shoot is damaged by insects (especially the asparagus beetle--see Asparagus Beetle and Spotted Asparagus Beetle), cultivation wounds on the crown, or windblown sand that pelts the tender shoots. The injured areas grow more slowly than the uninjured side, causing the stem to curve. Although the spears are misshapen, they are still edible.

Solution
Control asparagus beetles. To avoid wounding the crown, do not cultivate closer or deeper than 2 inches. Tall plants or fencing can be used as windbreaks to prevent sandblasting.

For gourmet white asparagus spears, blanch the emerging shoots in the spring. Mound 10 or 12 inches of soil over the plants as the first shoots appear. Harvest when the spear tips emerge through the hill of soil. Carefully dig down about 8 inches and cut the spear with a sharp knife. Use the spears fresh or cooked.