* In the reading I have done about growing asparagus I've noticed several traits, growing conditions, habits, requirements, etc. that seem to be shared with ferns. To those of you experienced --especially with both -- is this accurate?

I have several large patches of ferns, have been working with them for years and am quite familiar with their needs, growing conditions, which of the yard's "micro-climates" they prefer, etc. and, if these perceived similarities are accurate this could be very helpful to giving me a significant head start with the asparagus. Would it be accurate to say that asparagus will thrive in an area where ferns are happy?

* When I read to mulch asparagus for winter "with a 6 inch layer of leaves on the soil" should this be interpreted as
a 6 inch layer of loosely raked leaves as one might with strawberries, ie. lots of air pockets OR
a 6 inch layer of leaves that have already gone through the shredder: not a lot of air pockets but lots of material?

I'm sure the latter would be good during growing season.

In most climates the purpose of the winter mulch is to prevent winter weeds and contribute to soil fertility, so just about anything will do. It does not have to be 6 inches deep unless you're in a cold climate with scant snow cover.