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Step 1
You can start asparagus plants from seed, but it will be a long wait until you can crop them and they tend to germinate slowly and erratically. Most people buy crowns (fleshy roots with a 'crown' where stems will grow) that are already a few years old. They are sold in most garden centers or over the Internet for autumn or spring planting, depending on your climate.
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Step 2
If you buy crowns, they will likely be packaged with a number of plants pressed together in the packaging. You will want to separate each plant gently and, if there is no moist soil on the root, set it in a bucket of water to stay moist.
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Step 3
Dig holes large enough to comfortably support the spread-out roots so the crown of the plant will be even with the surface of the soil. Asparagus plants appreciate a deep, slightly moist loam with plenty of compost, though they are more forgiving than most vegetables about their soil. Give them the best you can since they are remarkably long-lived and can grow in place for up to 15 years. Place asparagus plants in full sun.
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Step 4
Plant crowns at least 12" apart in a row and at least 5' apart if you are planting multiple rows.
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Step 5
Asparagus can grow in cold climates where the ground freezes hard or warm where the heat can soar into the 100's. They need a period of rest, however, whether it is from cool temperatures or drought.
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Step 6
Wait to crop asparagus after for least 3 years if growing from seed. Wait the first year if growing from crowns so the plant can firmly establish itself that first season. After this, crop lightly for the next year or two letting most of the stalks grow to full size. These plants can have very deep and extensive roots so if you let them get well established, they will produce well over the coming years.
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Step 7
Cut asparagus shoots in the spring when they are about 6" tall by using a sharp knife and slicing them off at the base.
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Step 8
Asparagus plants will grow into tall feathery plants topping out at 4' - 6' tall. They are soft and decorative, so you can grow them along a wall or as a backdrop to your vegetable garden.
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Step 9
Asparagus shoots are healthy and nourishing. They are tasty whether steamed lightly and eaten plain or incorporated into elaborate recipes. Fun and easy to grow, the asparagus does need space to grow (not a good choice for growing in pots) but it will reward you with many years of fresh spears for the harvesting.
Comments
veryirie said
on 11/18/2008 I've never thought of adding asparagus to my little garden. Your tips and pics are excellent resources. Thanks!
DUSTYMILLS said
on 11/18/2008 A very good piece here Gardengates, most people think asparagus is hard to grow, but as you say, it's really not. I live in zone 1 and it does very well here. Good info and pics.....thanks.