Skip to content 
Hey garden friends!
Learn about How To Grow And Harvest Asparagus.
in this article, we will show you
- How to plant Asparagus
- Grow, & care of Asparagus
- Harvest asparagus
- and more
You don’t need to be a gardening expert. Just be curious!
Come along with me on this adventure.
Soon you’ll be enjoying yummy asparagus spears.
Let’s Get Started.
Understanding Asparagus
Botanical Background:
Asparagus officinalis is a perennial plant that can produce for over two decades.
Varieties:
Includes ‘Mary Washington,’ ‘Jersey Knight,’ and ‘Purple Passion,’ with each offering unique benefits regarding yield, spear size, and cold hardiness.
How to Plant Asparagus
Selecting Location:
Asparagus thrives in full sun and well-drained soil.
Soil Preparation:
Work the soil deeply, incorporating plenty of organic matter, and create a trench about 12 inches wide and 6 to 8 inches deep.
Crown Selection:
Purchase one-year-old, disease-free crowns from a reputable nursery.
Planting Technique:
Space the crowns 12 to 18 inches apart in the trench, spreading the roots outward and covering them with 2 to 3 inches of soil.
How to Grow Asparagus
Basic Preparation
First Year: Focus on allowing the ferns to grow and strengthen the root system. Avoid harvesting.
Watering: Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells.
Weeding: Keep the bed free from weeds without disturbing the shallow roots.
Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and after the harvest.
Winter Preparation
Cutting Back: After the foliage has yellowed in the fall, cut it back to ground level.
Mulching: Apply a thick layer of mulch to protect the crowns during winter and
conserve moisture.
Dealing with Pests and Diseases
Common Issues: Asparagus beetle, fusarium wilt, and asparagus rust.
Control Measures: Keep a clean bed, promote good air circulation, and practice crop rotation. Use organic or chemical controls as necessary.
How and When to Harvest Asparagus
Harvesting Asparagus:
Begin to harvest spears when they are about 6 to 8 inches tall and as thick as a pencil, usually in the third year.
Cutting Asparagus:
Use a sharp knife or snap the spears off at ground level.
Allowing Ferns to Develop:
After a few weeks of harvesting, allow the remaining spears to develop into ferns to replenish the crowns.
Conclusion
Growing asparagus requires patience and care, but the reward of fresh, succulent spears is well worth the effort. By providing the right conditions and care, you can enjoy a bountiful asparagus harvest each spring. Prepare the bed carefully, choose the right crowns, and provide regular care, and your asparagus bed will be productive for many years.
How long do asparagus take to grow?
Growing asparagus requires some patience, but it’s worth the wait! From planting, it typically takes about 2 to 3 years before you can start harvesting. During the first year, focus on establishing the plants without harvesting. In the second and third years, you can gradually start harvesting, and by the fourth year, you’ll have a full-fledged asparagus harvest. So, get ready for a delicious reward for your patience!
Does asparagus grow back after harvesting?
Absolutely! Asparagus is a resilient plant that regrows after harvesting. When you cut or snap the spears during the harvest season, the plant will continue to produce new spears from the crown. Regular harvesting actually encourages the plant to produce more. So, enjoy your asparagus harvest, and watch it come back for more in the next growing season!
Can you grow asparagus from cuttings?
Growing asparagus from cuttings is not the most common method. Asparagus is typically grown from crowns or seeds. Crowns are the more common choice, as they establish faster. However, if you’re determined to try cuttings, ensure they include a portion of the root system and follow proper planting procedures. Keep in mind that growing asparagus from cuttings might take longer to establish compared to crowns or seeds. Happy experimenting!
Where does asparagus grow best?
Asparagus thrives in well-drained soil and prefers areas with a temperate climate. It grows best in regions with cool winters, moderate spring temperatures, and warm summers. Full sunlight is crucial for asparagus, so choose a location that receives at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight. Asparagus is adaptable, but it does best in a climate that allows for a winter dormancy period. Find the right spot, and you’ll have a bountiful asparagus harvest!
