Asparagus 'Erasmus'

Erasmus is a male variety of asparagus that is grown for its heigh yields, colour, and sweet-flavoured, tender stalks. The dark purple stalks lose their colour when cooked but are tender enough to be eaten raw. If not harvested in time, the stalks may turn green/brown.

Asparagus is a perennial and only needs to be planted once. However, it can take 1-3 years before you will get a sizeable crop. The first year you should not harvest at all and instead, focus on growing a strong, healthy root system. In the second year, you can harvest lightly for 2-3 weeks. By the third year your asparagus should come into full production and you can harvest for 6-8 weeks. 

To harvest, use a knife just below surface level to cut the stalks off, just above the crown. Stop harvesting by June to allow vegetative growth to recover energy for next year. 

Asparagus grows best in full sun with moist, well-drained soil. Amend your soil with organic matter such as compost if you have heavy, poorly drained soil. While the plant is establishing, water deeply and frequently to encourage strong root growth. Once established, you should only need to water during periods of drought.