Asparagus is $0.97/lb at my Kroger affiliate store, so I picked up 5 bunches. I use the "Kosher Pickle - Refrigerator Mix" by Mrs Wages.... so no processing is needed. But jars of veggies must stay in the fridge, they are NOT self stable. For this application you should start with freshly washed jars, then sterilize them in boiling water. I'm at 5400', so I allow 15 minutes for that step. Veggies take about a week to cure, and have a fridge life of 4 months. I blanch the stalks for 3 minutes, and follow with an ice bath. I make Dilly Beans the same way, but use a 2.5 minute blanch. I actually like the 'crunch' of refrigerator vegetables over processed ones.