Asparagus 'Equinoxe' (3 claws)
'Equinox' Asparagus (3 claws) – A long-term project for lasting delight!
Growing asparagus: a cost-effective investment over several years
' Equinox' asparagus ( Asparagus officinalis ) is a hybrid variety developed in Canada by the University of Guelph. Known for its long, straight, and uniform spears, this variety is entirely male , meaning it does not produce seeds and focuses all its energy on producing strong, flavorful stalks. Highly resistant to harsh winters, it is well-suited to cool and temperate climates.
Asparagus requires patience: the harvest will only be optimal after 2 to 3 years, but once 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 cm (36")
Exposure : Full sun
Hardiness zone : 3
Type : 100% male hybrid (optimized yield)
Yield : Very high
Deer resistance : Low
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 , preferably slightly sandy.
Asparagus needs full sun to grow well.
How to plant
1. Dig a trench 20-25 cm deep and 30 cm wide .
2Arrange the claws flat at the bottom of the trench, spacing each plant 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
Patience required! Do not harvest in the first year to allow the plant to establish itself.
Water regularly , especially during periods of drought, but avoid stagnant water.
Apply mulch to limit weeds and retain soil moisture.
Fertilize with a rich compost in the spring to ensure good growth.
When and how to harvest
Year 1 : No harvest, let the plants develop.
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 at the base with a sharp knife or break the stems by hand.
Once established, your asparagus will produce for over 20 years!
How to enjoy your 'Equinox' asparagus
Deliciously tender and tasty, they can be cooked in a thousand ways!
Steamed with a drizzle of lemon butter.
Oven-roasted with olive oil and Parmesan cheese
In a spring salad with herb vinaigrette
Roasted with garlic and balsamic vinegar for a delicious side dish.
Cooking tip : Plunge them into ice water after cooking to preserve their beautiful green color and crispness!
Why choose 'Equinox' asparagus
A long-term project that's worth it!
A productive and resistant variety
A gourmet vegetable with incomparable flavors
A bountiful harvest for decades
Treat yourself to a harvest of fresh and tasty asparagus every spring!
