Asparagus needs food and water for thick spears, so you may need to apply fertiliser as well as watering in dry weather. Photo / Thinkstock
Q: Why do some of my 4-year-old asparagus plants keep producing thin spears?
A: Two possibilities: Asparagus needs food and water for thick spears, so you may need to apply fertiliser as well as watering in dry weather. Also note that asparagus plants are either male or female, with male
plants producing stronger spears -- female plants put more of their energies into producing berries later in the season. These berries eventually turn red and drop, creating seedlings that some gardeners see as a nuisance, others as free asparagus plants.
How can I get rid of ivy that's grown all over a wooden fence?
A: Pull off and carefully dispose of as much the vines as you can, cutting or sawing through thick roots. A flat-bladed screwdriver or paint scraper comes in handy for the job, and since many people are sensitive to ivy it pays to wear long sleeves and gloves. Paint stumps with a systemic herbicide (eg Vigilant or Invade gel), but ivy is hard to kill. Watch for regrowth.
• If you have a gardening question, email Glenys at glenyswoollard@clear.net.nz.
