This just in: Mars needs Asparagus!

That robot we sent to Mars is sending back some very interesting information, primarily on the agricultural fronts. We all know about the shortage of good soil in which to grow asparagus on Earth – Victoria’s recent good fortune is due to the [favourable soil conditions](http://asparagus.com.au/Supplying%20Asparagus/victorianasparag.html)  in which to grow this rare and highly sought\-after vegetable. All that will be coming to an end soon, as the Mars Robot has discovered soil on Mars that is [capable of supporting asparagus cultivation and harvesting](http://www.reuters.com/article/scienceNews/idUSN2634952620080626)  .

Sam Kounaves, the lead investigator for the wet chemistry laboratory on Phoenix, explained that “it is the type of soil you would probably have in your back yard, you know, alkaline. You might be able to grow asparagus in it really well. … It is very exciting for us.”

No more asparagus shortages on Earth! All hail the Mars Robot, discoverer of an entire planet suitable for growing asparagus! The “red planet” shall henceforth be known as the “green planet”. Onwards!

[Edit: Image courtesy of Michael Wood, esq. ]