Asparagus 'Guelph Millennium' (1 crown, 25 min. order)

Key Characteristics

• Origin: 'Guelph Millennium' is a hybrid asparagus cultivar developed at the **University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada**. It was selected for its high yields, disease resistance, and good spear quality. It was introduced in **2000**.
• Patent Status: 'Guelph Millennium' asparagus was protected under Plant Breeders' Rights (PBR) in Canada, certificate number 1427, held by University of Guelph until it expired on 2021-02-24. It is considered a public domain variety. It can be freely propagated and distributed.
• Spear Production: 'Guelph Millennium' is known for its **very high yields** of uniform, attractive spears. The spears are typically medium to large in diameter with tight tips and a good green color. It is a predominantly **male hybrid**, resulting in higher yields as the plants do not expend energy on seed production.
• Harvest Season: It is a **mid-season** maturing variety, generally producing harvestable spears for a longer period compared to some older cultivars. The exact timing depends on local climate and growing conditions, typically starting in the spring.
• Plant Characteristics: 'Guelph Millennium' produces vigorous ferns after the harvest season. Being a predominantly male hybrid, it produces very few or no berries, which contributes to its high yield potential.
• Flowers: Asparagus plants produce small, bell-shaped, greenish-white flowers in the spring and early summer, which on female plants would be followed by red berries. 'Guelph Millennium', being mostly male, has minimal berry production.
• Hardiness: Generally hardy in USDA Zones **3 through 8**, making it well-suited to a wide range of climates.
• Pollination: Asparagus is dioecious, meaning male and female flowers are on separate plants. However, 'Guelph Millennium' is a predominantly male hybrid and does not rely on pollination for spear production. Its lack of significant female plants contributes to higher yields.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires **full sun** for optimal growth and spear production.
  • Soil: Prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0). Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot.
  • Watering: Requires consistent moisture, especially during the harvest season and fern development. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Fertilizing: Benefits from regular fertilization in the spring before and after the harvest, as well as in the fall after the ferns have died back.
  • Planting:** Asparagus crowns are typically planted in trenches in the early spring. Proper spacing is important for good air circulation and growth.
• Harvesting:** Spears are typically harvested in the spring when they reach a desired height (usually 7-9 inches) and before the tips begin to open. The harvest period usually lasts for several weeks.