What to Do About Abnormal Asparagus Growth? Detailed Guide to Prevention and Control Methods

When growing asparagus, people often notice strange phenomena, or find abnormal asparagus after harvesting. These are mostly caused by environmental factors during growth. So what situations can occur? Below, Qinong Web introduces some common ones, so that you can have prevention and control methods when you encounter them in the future.

1. Cracking

This is a relatively obvious and easy-to-spot abnormality, shown by the asparagus stalk splitting open. In relatively hot and humid conditions, rot can also appear; if it is relatively dry, brown dried crack lines appear. This is mostly caused by too much nitrogen being released during the growing period, which leads to insufficient amounts of other fertilizers. The plant keeps growing larger but loses its toughness, and when the asparagus transport vessels can no longer hold it, it splits open. When applying fertilizer daily, be sure to pay attention to the ratio, and do not blindly pursue thick and sturdy growth.

2. Deformity

Deformity is a situation that occurs very easily in asparagus, shown by some growing curved or short and stubby, with an irregular distribution. This is mostly caused by fertilization and soil looseness. It can be caused by excessive or severely insufficient fertilization, and relatively high soil clay content can also cause it. The former is a seedling burning phenomenon, while the latter means the roots cannot exchange well with the outside air, so nutrient supply cannot keep up. Therefore, fertilizer should be applied according to the specified amount, and soil loosening must be thorough.

3. Hollow Heart

This is actually very similar to the cracking disorder, but its degree is somewhat milder, and it is not easy for growers to notice. It is shown by asparagus that looks thick and sturdy but has no tissue support inside, appearing hollow. Phosphorus and potassium are meant to help the plant grow better internal tissues; lacking both will result in a hollow condition. Therefore, for some extremely well-developed, thick asparagus, these two fertilizers can be applied somewhat more appropriately to prevent hollow heart.

4. Becoming Bitter

This is mostly reported by others after harvesting, and growers may not know about it at ordinary times. The cause of this situation is mostly environmental or fertilizer-related. The former refers to the water source near the planting site being polluted, causing some toxic elements to penetrate into the asparagus during irrigation, and after being broken down by the asparagus, bitter products are left behind. The latter is caused by the fertilizer applied having already deteriorated or belonging to garbage fertilizer. In this respect, you can only do your own screening well.

The above are some abnormal situations during asparagus cultivation. We have only listed some of the more common patterns in various places; depending on different locations, there will still be some corresponding symptoms. Everyone must carefully investigate the causes and strive to grow their asparagus large and good.