Position
- Grow in full sun for optimal growth and vigorous plants
- It can tolerate partial shade, but full sun ensures better yields and reduces the risk of diseases
- Avoid frost pockets or very exposed positions to protect emerging shoots
Hardiness
- Asparagus ‘Raffaello’ is hardy down to approximately -20°C (-4°F), making it suitable for UK winters
- Ensure well-drained soil and light mulching in cold regions to protect crowns from extreme frost
Soil Type
- Performs best in free-draining, nutrient-rich soil, such as sandy or loamy soil
- Avoid heavy clay unless modified with organic matter to improve drainage and texture
Soil PH
- Prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline pH (6.5–7.5)
- Add lime if the soil is acidic to raise the pH before planting
- Grab a soil test kit and ensure the perfect conditions for growth
Height
- Mature ferns reach 1.2-1.5m in height
- Spread of 45-60cm per plant
- Harvest spears at about 15-20cm
Seasons of Interest
- Spears emerge in early to mid-spring
- Harvesting continues through spring to early summer (April to June)
- Feathery, fern-like foliage remains ornamental through summer and autumn
- No significant autumn colour or variegation
Additional Notes
- Planting: Use fresh ground, not an old asparagus bed, to avoid pest or disease buildup.
- Crowns: Plant dormant crowns in early spring (March to April).
- Watering: Maintain consistent watering during the first growing season, particularly during dry spells.
- Feeding: Apply organic fertiliser in spring and after cropping to nourish the crowns.
- Weed Control: Keep the beds weed-free using hand weeding or shallow hoeing to avoid disturbing the roots.
- Pest Management: Keep an eye out for asparagus beetles and remove them promptly.
- Longevity: Once established, the bed can remain productive for up to 20 years.
Your Guide to Growing Asparagus Raffaello at Home
Asparagus Raffaello is an excellent choice if you’re a gardening enthusiast looking for a productive and reliable asparagus variety. This late-season variety offers high yields of thick, straight spears, making it a rewarding addition to your vegetable patch. With its strong disease resistance and adaptability to various soil types, Raffaello ensures a long, productive harvest season.
Growing your asparagus is an investment in your garden’s future, as a well-maintained asparagus bed can provide fresh spears for over 20 years. Whether a seasoned gardener or a beginner, Raffaello crowns will thrive with the right care, rewarding you with delicious, homegrown asparagus every spring.
When is the Best Time to Plant Asparagus Raffaello?
May is an ideal month to plant asparagus crowns. The soil is warm enough to encourage strong root development, giving your plants a head start before the colder months. Planting in spring allows the crowns to establish themselves before the next growing season.
Choosing the Right Location for Your Asparagus Bed
Asparagus thrives in full sun, so choose a spot with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid planting in areas prone to waterlogging, as excess moisture can cause root rot. Well-drained soil with good organic matter is essential for healthy asparagus plants.
Preparing the Soil for Asparagus Raffaello
How to Plant Asparagus Crowns
Plant Raffaello asparagus crowns with their roots spread out evenly along the trench. Position them 20cm apart, ensuring the crown is covered with soil. Gradually fill in the trench over time as the spears emerge.
Caring for Asparagus Raffaello
- Watering: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Regular watering is crucial during dry spells.
- Weeding: Regularly remove all weeds to prevent competition for nutrients.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of rotted manure or compost to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Feeding: Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring and autumn to encourage vigorous growth.
How Tall Does Asparagus Raffaello Grow?
When fully mature, Raffaello plants can reach a height of 100cm (39in). Their tall, feathery foliage adds a striking feature to your garden while also helping to support spear production.
Harvesting Asparagus Raffaello
You should resist harvesting asparagus in the first two years to allow the crowns to establish fully. By the third year, you can begin harvesting the spears when they are 12-20cm tall. Cut them at ground level and enjoy their tender, flavourful texture.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
- Cold Damage: Protect young shoots from late frosts with cloches.
- Weed Competition: Keep the asparagus bed weed-free to promote vigorous growth.
- Overcrowding: Maintaining proper spacing ensures good air circulation and prevents disease.
From Darren’s Patch
Raffaello is one of those dependable varieties that I often recommend to gardeners who want something they can count on year after year. While I’m not growing it myself, I’ve seen how well it performs in other gardens — strong, straight spears and excellent disease resistance make it stand out. It’s convenient for extending the asparagus season into late spring, which is great if you already have an earlier variety. What I like about Raffaello is that once it’s established, it just gets on with the job. Giving it a sunny, well-prepared bed and keeping it weed-free will reward you handsomely for years. As with all asparagus, a little patience early on pays off — and come harvest time, you’ll be glad you gave it the space.
Key Points to Remember
- Plant crowns in May for strong root development
- Choose a sunny, well-drained location
- Dig long trenches (30cm deep, 45cm wide) and space crowns 20cm apart
- Add well-rotted manure or compost for soil fertility
- Keep the bed weed-free and mulch regularly
- Allow plants to establish before harvesting in the third year
- Enjoy fresh, homegrown asparagus for years to come
Asparagus Raffaello is a fantastic late-season variety that rewards gardeners with high yields, excellent disease resistance, and long-term productivity. Following these simple steps, you can cultivate a thriving asparagus bed and enjoy delicious, homegrown spears every spring.
To see the RHS article, please click here.
For more information on Fruit for your garden, please click here.
Want to learn about other Asparagus varieties? Read about Asparagus Portlim here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where can I buy Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’ crowns?
A: You can purchase Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’ crowns from garden centres and online retailers.
Q: What is Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’ and how does it differ from other varieties?
A: Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’ is a distinctive variety of Asparagus officinalis, known for its straight, smooth spears and high yield. It often produces more spears than traditional varieties, making it a favourite among home gardeners.
Q: When is the best time to plant Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’ crowns?
A: The ideal time to plant these crowns is in early spring, after the last frost. Planting without delay ensures strong growth throughout the growing season.
Q: How deep should I plant Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’ crowns?
A: Plant the crowns in a trench 30 cm deep. This depth helps establish a strong root system for healthy growth.
Q: What kind of soil do I need for Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’?
A: Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’ thrives in well-drained soil. Adding well-rotted manure or compost improves soil quality and provides essential nutrients for the plants.
Q: How far apart should I space my Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’ crowns?
A: Maintain a spacing of 45cm between each crown. This allows enough room for the plants to grow without competing for nutrients.
Q: How do I prepare the trench for planting Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’?
A: To prepare the trench at the bottom, add a 7cm layer of well-rotted manure or compost. This provides essential nutrients right from the start.
Q: How do I care for my Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’ once planted?
A: After planting, water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Q: How long does Asparagus ‘Raffaelo’ take to produce spears?
A: Spears will appear within 2-3 years of planting. Patience is key; the plants need time to establish a strong root system.
Q: Can I harvest all the spears in the first year?
A: It’s best to harvest lightly in the first year, if at all. Allowing the plants to mature fully will strengthen them for better yields in subsequent years.