Asparagus officinalis:
Argenteuil is an early maturing variety with long, straight, large thick spears. It is green in colour with a light purplish tinge at the tip.
This very productive French Heirloom variety will often produce spears a year faster than other varieties. The spears are rich in manganese and selenium, as well as chromium, a trace mineral that enhances the ability of insulin to transport glucose from the bloodstream into cells.
It is low in sodium. It is also a good source of vit.B6, calcium, magnesium and zinc, and a very good source of dietary fiber, protein, vitamins A, C, E, K.
Since asparagus originated in a maritime habitat it thrives in soils that are too saline for normal weeds to grow in. Thus a little salt was traditionally used to suppress weeds in asparagus beds.
Soil fertility is a large factor in asparagus success.
Sow seeds 1 cm deep after frosts have finished or plant into pots and transplant when well established (often after 2 years).
Keep well mulched with seaweed being preferred.