Asparagus Connover’s Colossal A perennial vegetable grown for its delicious shoots or spears, asparagus is a revelation when home-grown. Asparagus Connover’s Colossal is an old, open-pollinated variety which is particularly reliable in the Irish climate, and has a very good flavour. Planted as 2 year-old crowns, they can start to be harvested after 2 years – and it’s worth the wait! When fully mature, asparagus plants will produce about 10 spears a year over 8 weeks, and will last for 15-20 years. Asparagus Connover’s Colossal does best on light soils; if growing on heavy soils, plant in a raised bed. Protect the emerging spears from slugs. Site: Sheltered; avoid frost pocketsSoil: Very well-drained soilPosition: Full sunPick: Late April–early JuneKeep: Eat as soon as possible after pickingHardiness: HardyPollination: Self-fertileUses: CookingHeight: 4’ (1.2m) Spread: 18” (45cm)