ASPARAGUS |
Introduction |
Asparagus which can be traced back to the Romans in the 1st century AD is a member of the lily family. Asparagus spears grow from a crown that is planted about a foot deep in sandy soils. Each crown will send spears up for about 6-7 weeks during the spring and early summer. Under ideal conditions, an Asparagus spear can grow 10" in a 24 hour period. The outdoor temperature determines how much time there will be between each picking. Early in the season, there may be 4-5 days between pickings but as the days and nights get warmer, a particular field may have to be picked every 24 hours.
After harvesting, the spears grow into ferns, which produce red berries and the food and nutrients necessary for a healthy and productive crop the next season. An asparagus planting is usually not harvested for the first 3 years after the crowns are planted allowing the crown to develop a strong fibrous root system. A well cared for asparagus planting will generally produce for about 15 years without being replanted. |
In Britain and North America , green varieties of Asparagus are preferred (and are said to have more flavour), while on the continent, white Asparagus is the most popular type. Sprue, which is often sold from market stalls at affordable prices, is a form of wild asparagus, Asparagus acutifolius, and is good for making stocks and soups. |
Nutrition |
Asparagus is nutrient dense. It is an excellent source of Folate (folic acid) which is necessary for blood cell formation, growth and prevention of liver disease. Folic acid has also been shown to play a significant role in the prevention of neural tube defects, such as spina bifida. Asparagus contains notable levels of Vitamins A, B6 and C; Potassium, Iron, Thiamin and Fibre. This wealth of nutrients coupled with a very low sodium and calorie content make Asparagus a nutritionally wise choice for today's health-conscious consumer.
Asparagus is credited as being a natural remedy: it is said that Asparagus can help relieve indigestion and act as a mild laxative and sedative. |
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