Controlling Female Asparagus Volunteers in Raised Beds

“Male” asparagus crowns that produce seeds create weed problems. Solutions:

• Replace with guaranteed male crowns (e.g., Nourse Farms).
• Heavy mulch: Cardboard/newspaper + straw blocks seed germination.
• Preen (pre-emergent) prevents new seeds but not existing crowns.

Best long-term fix: remove volunteers and replant certified male varieties.