Best Varieties of Asparagus for Growing in Western Ohio

Asparagus is a perennial vegetable that requires patience, but the reward is a delicious and nutritious harvest for many years. For gardeners in Western Ohio, choosing the right variety of asparagus is key to successful growth, given the region’s climate, soil conditions, and growing season. Western Ohio is in USDA Hardiness Zones 5b to 6a, with cold winters and warm summers, which is ideal for many types of asparagus. This article explores the best asparagus varieties suited to this region, offering tips on planting, care, and maximizing yields.

1. Understanding Asparagus Growth Habits and Requirements

Before diving into specific varieties, it’s helpful to understand the basic requirements for growing asparagus in Western Ohio:

• Soil: Asparagus thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. Sandy loam soils are ideal, but with good preparation, it can also be grown in heavier soils.
• Sunlight: Asparagus needs full sun, at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
• Space and Longevity: Asparagus crowns need room to spread and establish deep root systems. Once established, a well-maintained asparagus bed can produce spears for 15-20 years or more.
• Winter Hardiness: Asparagus needs cold winters for dormancy, making it well-suited to Western Ohio’s climate.

2. Top Asparagus Varieties for Western Ohio

Several asparagus varieties are particularly well-suited to the growing conditions in Western Ohio. These varieties offer high yields, disease resistance, and adaptability to the local climate.

1. Jersey Giant

The Jersey Giant variety is a standout choice for Western Ohio gardeners. It’s known for its cold tolerance, making it well-suited to the region’s winters. This male-dominant hybrid produces high yields of large, thick spears with a deep green color and purple tips. Jersey Giant is resistant to rust, fusarium, and crown rot, which are common asparagus diseases. It also emerges earlier in the spring than some other varieties, providing an extended harvest period.

2. Jersey Knight

Jersey Knight is another excellent variety developed for cold climates. Like Jersey Giant, it’s a predominantly male hybrid, which results in higher yields since male plants focus their energy on spear production rather than seed production. Jersey Knight produces large, tender spears and is highly resistant to rust, fusarium, and root rot. It thrives in heavier soils, making it a good choice if your garden has clayey or compacted soil, common in parts of Western Ohio.

3. Jersey Supreme

Jersey Supreme is favored for its early production and consistent yields. This hybrid variety is particularly well-suited for gardeners who want a slightly earlier harvest. It produces medium-thick spears that are tender and flavorful. Jersey Supreme shares the disease resistance and high productivity of other Jersey hybrids, making it a reliable option for the region.

4. Millennium

The Millennium variety, developed in Canada, is increasingly popular among gardeners in cooler climates like Western Ohio. This variety is very winter-hardy and produces slender to medium-sized spears that are tender and flavorful. Millennium is known for its vigorous growth, adaptability to various soil types, and extended harvest season. It also performs well in sandy and clay soils, making it versatile for different garden conditions.

5. Purple Passion

If you’re looking for something unique, Purple Passion is a great option. As the name suggests, this variety produces striking purple spears that are sweeter and more tender than traditional green varieties. Purple Passion is cold-tolerant and performs well in Western Ohio. While it has slightly lower yields compared to the Jersey hybrids, its distinctive color and flavor make it a favorite among home gardeners and specialty growers. The purple color fades when cooked, but the taste remains excellent, whether eaten raw in salads or roasted.

6. Mary Washington

Mary Washington is a classic open-pollinated variety that has been grown for decades. While newer hybrid varieties often produce higher yields, Mary Washington remains popular due to its reliability, cold tolerance, and traditional flavor. It produces medium-sized green spears with a slightly feathery texture. This variety is especially good for gardeners who prefer heritage plants or want to save seeds for future planting.

7. UC 157

Originally developed in California, the UC 157 variety has shown good adaptability to a range of climates, including Western Ohio. While it’s more common in warmer regions, it performs well in areas with mild summers and cold winters. UC 157 produces uniform spears with a medium diameter and is known for its early production. It’s not as cold-hardy as the Jersey hybrids but can be a good option for areas in Western Ohio with milder winters.

3. Tips for Planting and Growing Asparagus in Western Ohio

1. Preparing the Soil:

Start by selecting a well-drained site that receives full sunlight. Asparagus beds are long-term investments, so soil preparation is crucial. Work compost or well-rotted manure into the soil before planting to improve fertility and drainage. If your soil is heavy clay, consider raising the beds to enhance drainage.

2. Planting Crowns:

Plant asparagus crowns in early spring as soon as the soil is workable. Dig trenches that are 6-8 inches deep and about 12 inches wide. Place the crowns 12-18 inches apart, with the roots spread out evenly. Cover the crowns with 2-3 inches of soil, gradually filling in the trench as the plants grow. This method encourages strong, deep roots.

3. Watering and Mulching:

Asparagus needs consistent moisture, especially in the first couple of years as the plants establish themselves. Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulching around the plants helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain even soil temperature.

4. Fertilizing:

Fertilize in early spring before new growth begins and again after the final harvest to promote healthy growth and spear production. Organic options like composted manure or balanced fertilizers are effective.

5. Patience Pays Off:

Asparagus is a slow starter, so resist the temptation to harvest spears in the first two years. Allow the plants to fully establish by letting the ferns grow, which builds up energy reserves in the roots. You can begin harvesting in the third year, enjoying increasingly larger yields as the plants mature.

6. Harvesting:

In Western Ohio, asparagus harvesting typically begins in late April to early May and continues for 4-6 weeks. Harvest spears when they are 6-8 inches tall and about the thickness of a pencil. Stop harvesting when the spears start to thin out, allowing the plants to fern out and recharge for the next season.

4. Managing Pests and Diseases

Asparagus in Western Ohio is vulnerable to common pests like asparagus beetles, which can damage spears and ferns. Regular inspection and handpicking of beetles help control infestations. The Jersey varieties mentioned above are resistant to diseases like rust, fusarium, and crown rot, but good garden hygiene and crop rotation further reduce risks.

5. Conclusion

Western Ohio’s climate provides an excellent environment for growing asparagus, especially if you choose the right varieties. The Jersey hybrids—Giant, Knight, and Supreme—are top choices for their high yields, disease resistance, and cold tolerance. Millennium, Purple Passion, Mary Washington, and UC 157 also offer unique benefits depending on your preferences and garden conditions. With proper planting, care, and patience, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown asparagus for decades, making it a worthwhile addition to your garden.