19 January 2011

Crowns for artichokes, asparagus and rhubarb are available now in local nurseries and from online purveyors. These perennial vegetables produce for many years. Artichokes and rhubarb–bold and beautiful–have a place in the edible landscape.

For local readers, Walter Andersen Nursery has asparagus UC 157 and UC 72 and many bare root berries. City Farmers has artichokes, purple asparagus and rhubarb. My rhubarb is from Peaceful Valley Farm Supply and fortified by hefty amounts of compost and plenty of sunshine, it produces mightily in season. 

For information on varieties and how to grow, check these sources:

• Sunset Western Garden Book of Edibles
• UC Davis Vegetable Resource and Information Center (Select Home Gardens)
• Pat Welsh’s Southern California Organic Gardening