Asparagus

I have a notion of starting a small raised bed of asparagus this year
Anybody got any tips on soil mix, density or varieties to consider?
My understanding is that I will have none to eat for the first year at least :(

 

Don't be put off, we used to get a great crop with ours and when I lived in Nottingham on very sandy soil, it used to self seed all over the garden- the birds brought it in!

I am sure others will give you advice, but from what I remember, we used to dig a trench and place the plants on a ridge in the middle then fill the sides in with a very sandy mix.

Oh how I adore asparagus, my bed was dug up to build our stable, but its OK cos I now live very close to someone who farms it - lightly steamed, sea salt and loads of butter, a lemon and a little smoked salmon washed down with a nice bottle of bubbles - AAhhhh my diet!

 

I have never grown asparagus, but the gospel says mulch with seaweed!

 

Sandy soil is best, and dig a trench just as Waco says. If you are planting from seed then Three years is the waiting period for a full crop. If planting crowns the first years crop will not be huge and you will need to wait for another year to get a full crop.

 

Thanks peeps
I have lots of Canadian Pondweed that is almost identical to seaweed which would probably be good as a fertiliser
And as I only plan a small raised bed I can mix in lots of horticultural grit to provide a sandy mix
Must see if I can get some roots. I take it they are planted so that the top just shows above the ground?

 

I have just bought 10 roots to be delivered early April with planting destructions
Now to get started with building a small raised bed
They tell me I can eat a few about June time, so that will be nice