Asparagus 'Eclipse' (3 claws)
'Eclipse' Asparagus (3 crowns) – A delicious project for abundant harvests
Growing asparagus: a long-term investment for a lasting reward
' Eclipse' asparagus ( Asparagus officinalis ) is a hybrid variety developed by the University of Guelph in Canada. It is an improvement on the popular Millennium variety , offering thicker spears, an earlier harvest, and a higher yield . This 100% male hybrid focuses solely on producing flavorful stalks, without wasting energy on seed production.
Asparagus requires patience: the first significant harvest comes after 2 to 3 years, but once well established, they produce for more than 20 years!
Variety characteristics
Planting period : March - April
Harvest : April - June (from the 3rd year onwards)
Plant height : 90-120 cm (36"-48")
Exposure : Full sun
Hardiness zone : 3
Type : 100% male hybrid (optimized yield)
Yield : Excellent
Flavor : Mild and full-bodied
Deer resistance : Yes
Planting and growing asparagus
When and where to plant
Plant the claws (roots) in early spring (March-April) , as soon as the ground is workable.
Choose a well-drained, rich and deep soil , ideally sandy or loamy.
Asparagus requires full sun exposure to grow well.
How to plant
1. Dig a trench 20-25 cm deep and 30 cm wide .
2Place the claws flat at the bottom of the trench, spacing them 30-45 cm apart.
3Cover them lightly with 5 cm of soil and water well.
4Gradually add more potting soil as the seedlings grow, until the trench is completely filled.
Interview
Do not harvest in the first year : let the plant become well established.
Water regularly , especially during periods of drought, but avoid stagnant water.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and limit weeds.
Enrich the soil with compost or manure in the spring to boost growth.
When and how to harvest
Year 1 : Let the plants develop without harvesting.
2 year : Harvest very lightly for 2 to 3 weeks.
Year 3 and following : Full harvest for 6 to 8 weeks !
How to cut
Pick the asparagus when they are 15 to 20 cm tall , before they become fibrous.
Cut them at the base with a sharp knife or break them by hand.
Once well established, your asparagus will produce for over 20 years!
How to enjoy your 'Eclipse' asparagus
Deliciously tender and tasty, they can be cooked in a thousand ways!
Steamed with hollandaise sauce
Grilled on the barbecue with olive oil and sea salt.
In a creamy risotto with parmesan and lemon
In a savory tart with goat cheese and fresh herbs
Cooking tip : Plunge them into ice water after cooking to preserve their beautiful green color and crispness!
Why choose 'Eclipse' asparagus
A gardening project that's well worth it!
An ultra-productive and resistant variety
A gourmet vegetable with exceptional flavors
A bountiful harvest for several decades
Treat yourself to an abundant harvest of fresh and tasty asparagus every spring!
