Thompson and Morgan Asparagus Officinalis Mondeo Crown 25 Pack

Asparagus ‘Mondeo’ from Thompson & Morgan is an impressive all-male hybrid, ideal for both spring and autumn planting. This popular variety is known for its exceptional yields and superb quality, particularly early in the season. Expect delicious spears with tightly closed tips throughout the harvesting period, offering excellent flavour and good resistance to disease.When planting, choose a sunny, sheltered spot with richly fertile, well-drained soil. Prior to arrival, prepare permanent asparagus beds by digging trenches 20cm (10") deep and 30cm (12") wide. Enrich the base with 7cm (3") of well-rotted manure or garden compost. Create a ridge of soil on top of this layer and position the asparagus crowns 45cm (18") apart, draping their roots over the ridge. Cover the crowns with 7cm (3") of soil, firming them gently into position. For cold, wet soils, incorporate sharp sand or grit to improve drainage. Remove all weeds, and incorporate plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost into the soil to improve soil structure and fertility.In autumn, cut back any yellowing foliage and mulch the crowns with well-rotted manure to protect against frost. Feed with a general fertiliser each March. Weed by hand to avoid damaging the shallow roots, and water regularly during hot weather to prevent drying out.In the first year, resist harvesting, allowing the plants to establish foliage. A small harvest is possible in the second year during April and May, when spears reach 15cm (6"). By the third year, a full harvest can be enjoyed, but it’s advisable to stop cutting from the end of May to allow shoots to develop into foliage, as later harvests may weaken the plant. Later harvests can be made but risk weakening the plant.