This is an old method, I guess - have it described in two books, one 1917 (Garden Steps) and 1893 (Gardening for Profit). From the latter: "The application of salt to Asparagus as a top-dressing is claimed to be of benefit in inland districts out of the range of a saline atmosphere, but is of little or no benefit in the vicinity of salt water. When used it should be applied in spring only, at the rate of half a pound per square yard, strewed on the surface; the rains will dissolve it and wash it down to the roots. Besides its beneficial effects upon the plant, it is to some extent destructive to the wire worm and other insects that are often troublesome to the Asparagus."
I'm about 1/4 mile from the ocean and pile on eelgrass, after the asparagus harvest is finished - it goes straight from the shore (where it washes up) to the beds as a mulch for moisture and weed control - no rinsing to get rid of salt. The plants are healthy & trouble free - whether due to the salty eelgrass or maybe they just like it here, I don't know. Garlic & potatoes are also heavily mulched with eelgrass - it's free. (For now - I read last week that it's dying off along the coast here - like a lot of other stuff). __________________________________________________________________ Your favorite stores, helpful shopping tools and great gift ideas. Experience the convenience of buying online with Shop@Netscape! http://shopnow.netscape.com/ Get your own FREE, personal Netscape Mail account today at http://webmail.netscape.com/
