How Do I Plant Asparagus?
Planting asparagus involves a bit of initial investment and patience, but the rewards are immense: a perennial crop providing delicious spears for decades to come. The key is to choose the right location, prepare the soil thoroughly, and plant the crowns at the correct depth, allowing them to establish a strong root system.
Asparagus: A Long-Term Investment in Flavor
Asparagus, a member of the lily family, is a vegetable that requires planning but pays off handsomely. Unlike annual crops that need replanting each year, asparagus is a perennial, meaning it will return year after year, often for 15-20 years or more. Think of planting asparagus as setting up a long-term, low-maintenance food source.
Why Grow Asparagus? The Benefits
There are numerous reasons why home gardeners choose to grow their own asparagus.
- Superior Flavor: Freshly harvested asparagus has a sweetness and tenderness that is unmatched by store-bought varieties, which can often be days or weeks old.
- Cost Savings: While the initial investment in crowns and soil preparation can be significant, the long lifespan of an asparagus bed translates to considerable savings over time.
- Control Over Cultivation: Growing your own allows you to avoid pesticides and herbicides, ensuring a healthy and organic crop.
- A Beautiful Addition to the Garden: Asparagus ferns, which emerge after the harvest season, provide a lush, feathery backdrop to other plants in the garden.
Choosing the Right Location
Asparagus requires a sunny location with well-drained soil. It needs at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day to thrive. Avoid areas where water tends to pool, as soggy soil can lead to crown rot. Consider the long-term nature of an asparagus bed when selecting a location, as it will occupy that space for many years.
Preparing the Soil: The Foundation for Success
Soil preparation is arguably the most important step in planting asparagus. Asparagus prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (between 6.5 and 7.0).
- Testing the Soil: Before planting, test your soil to determine its pH and nutrient levels. Amend the soil as needed based on the test results.
- Adding Organic Matter: Incorporate plenty of organic matter, such as compost, well-rotted manure, or peat moss, to improve soil drainage and fertility. This is critical for long-term success.
- Removing Weeds: Eliminate all existing weeds, especially perennial weeds, before planting. Weeds can compete with asparagus for nutrients and water.
Planting Asparagus Crowns: The Step-by-Step Guide
Asparagus is typically planted from crowns, which are one- or two-year-old plants with a developed root system.
- Timing is Key: Plant asparagus crowns in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked.
- Dig a Trench: Dig trenches that are 6-8 inches deep and 12-18 inches wide. Space the trenches about 4-5 feet apart.
- Mound the Soil: Create a small mound of soil in the center of the trench.
- Position the Crowns: Place the asparagus crowns on top of the mounds, spreading out the roots evenly.
- Cover with Soil: Cover the crowns with 2 inches of soil. As the asparagus spears emerge, gradually fill in the trench with soil until it is level with the surrounding ground.
- Water Thoroughly: Water the newly planted crowns thoroughly.
Caring for Your Asparagus Bed: Long-Term Maintenance
- Weed Control: Regularly weed the asparagus bed to prevent weeds from competing for nutrients and water. Mulching can help suppress weed growth.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize the asparagus bed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer or compost. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to leggy growth.
- Watering: Water the asparagus bed regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Cutting Back Ferns: In late fall or early winter, after the ferns have turned brown, cut them back to the ground. This will help prevent disease and pests.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Planting Too Shallow: Planting crowns too shallow can result in the roots drying out.
- Poor Soil Drainage: Asparagus does not tolerate wet feet. Ensure the soil is well-drained.
- Over-Harvesting Young Plants: Avoid harvesting spears during the first two years after planting. This allows the plants to establish a strong root system.
- Neglecting Weed Control: Weeds can quickly overrun an asparagus bed if not controlled.
Understanding Asparagus Varieties
Different asparagus varieties offer varying characteristics in terms of yield, spear thickness, and disease resistance. Choosing the right variety for your climate and preferences is important.
| Variety | Description |
|---|---|
| Jersey Knight | High-yielding, early-producing male hybrid. Resistant to rust and Fusarium. |
| Jersey Giant | Large spears, high yields. Resistant to rust and Fusarium. |
| Millennium | Vigorous, disease-resistant hybrid. Tolerates a wide range of soil conditions. |
| Purple Passion | Sweet, tender purple spears. Turns green when cooked. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is the best time to plant asparagus?
Asparagus crowns are best planted in the early spring, typically from late March to early May, or as soon as the ground thaws and can be worked. Avoid planting in frozen soil.
How deep should I plant asparagus crowns?
The ideal depth to plant asparagus crowns is 6-8 inches deep. This provides enough insulation for the roots and allows for healthy spear development.
How far apart should I space asparagus plants?
Space the asparagus crowns 12-18 inches apart in the trench. This allows each plant to develop properly without overcrowding.
How long does it take for asparagus to produce spears?
It generally takes two to three years after planting for asparagus to produce a substantial harvest. This waiting period allows the roots to establish themselves.
Can I grow asparagus from seed?
Yes, asparagus can be grown from seed, but it takes longer to mature and produce spears compared to planting crowns. Starting from seed requires an additional year or two before harvesting.
What are the common pests and diseases of asparagus?
Common asparagus pests include asparagus beetles and aphids. Diseases include asparagus rust and Fusarium crown rot. Regular monitoring and appropriate treatments are key to control.
How do I know when to harvest asparagus spears?
Harvest asparagus spears when they are 6-8 inches tall and about as thick as your finger. The spear tips should be tight and compact, not open and feathery.
How long can I harvest asparagus each year?
During the first few years of harvesting (years 3-5), limit the harvest to 4-6 weeks. As the plants mature, you can extend the harvest season to 8-10 weeks.
How do I store harvested asparagus?
To store asparagus, wrap the cut ends in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Asparagus is best used within 3-5 days of harvesting.
What kind of fertilizer is best for asparagus?
A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (e.g., 10-10-10) is suitable for asparagus. Alternatively, compost or well-rotted manure can provide essential nutrients.
Can I grow asparagus in containers?
Yes, asparagus can be grown in containers, but it requires a large container with good drainage. Choose a container that is at least 18 inches deep and wide.
How do I deal with asparagus ferns after the harvest season?
Allow the asparagus ferns to turn yellow or brown in the fall before cutting them back to the ground. The ferns provide essential nutrients to the roots during the growing season.