Asparagus Aggravation

We planted our Jersry-type male hybrid asparagus three years ago and haven't harvested much for the past two years on the advice of every asparagus authority we read on the internet. We have also had so many yard projects going on during that time that weeding the asparagus patch has not been a huge priority. And that combined with the fact that until a few months ago the yard next to us was a huge weed patch is my excuse for growing way more weeds than asparagus. (The asparagus patch is located within the fan shaped timbers.)



I have started digging up the weeds and am trying hard not to disturb the roots of the asparagus. I have done about three feet with tons more to go. This is the quack grass type stuff that sends out long underground runners that shoot up everywhere. So far I have spent about 3 hours and am starting to wonder if it is worth my time because...

... the rabbits have found the asparagus. If you can't see it well enough with my fabulous point and shoot camera skills there are about 6 large asparagus that have been chewed down to nubbins. Why they waited two years to find them and start munching away, I have no idea. Maybe they read the same internet gardening sources I do.


We have a large yard and little hope of keeping the fluffy little monsters out of the yard. I think that it is about time that this guy started earning his keep around here!