When To Harvest Asparagus After Planting? Timing is Everything!
The patient gardener is richly rewarded when it comes to asparagus. Generally, wait two full years after planting crowns (or three years after planting from seed) before any harvesting. This allows the plants to establish a strong root system, ensuring abundant harvests for years to come.
The Allure of Asparagus: A Perennial Delight
Asparagus, Asparagus officinalis, is a perennial vegetable prized for its tender, succulent spears. Unlike many vegetables that require annual planting, asparagus can thrive for 15-20 years with proper care, making it a worthwhile investment for any gardener. Its early spring harvest provides a welcome taste of fresh produce after a long winter.
Building a Strong Foundation: Why Patience Matters
The first few years after planting are crucial for asparagus development. During this time, the plant focuses on establishing a robust root system, which is the key to future productivity. Harvesting too early weakens the plant, reducing spear production and overall lifespan. Think of it as allowing the plant to build a savings account – the more it puts in early, the more it can withdraw later.
From Seed to Spear: Planting Options
Asparagus can be grown from seeds or crowns.
- Seeds: Starting from seed is the most economical option, but it requires significantly more time before harvesting. Typically, you’ll need to wait three years after planting seeds before the first harvest.
- Crowns: Crowns are one-year-old plants with established root systems. They offer a head start, allowing for harvesting in two years after planting. Crowns are generally preferred due to the faster timeline.
The Harvest Cycle: Knowing When to Pick
Once your asparagus bed is established, the harvesting season typically lasts 6-8 weeks in the spring. Here’s how to approach it:
- First Year (after the initial waiting period): Harvest for a short period, typically 2-3 weeks, to avoid over-stressing the plants.
- Subsequent Years: You can extend the harvest to the full 6-8 weeks.
- Harvesting Technique: Snap or cut the spears off at ground level when they are 6-8 inches tall.
Signs of Maturity: Spear Thickness and Tightly Closed Tips
Knowing when to harvest isn’t just about the calendar; it’s also about observing the spears themselves. Ideal asparagus spears are:
- Pencil-thick: Avoid harvesting very thin spears, as they indicate a weak plant.
- Tightly closed tips: Spears with open, fern-like tips are past their prime and will be tougher.
Common Mistakes: Avoiding the Pitfalls
Several common mistakes can compromise your asparagus harvest:
- Early Harvesting: The biggest mistake is harvesting too early, before the plants have established a strong root system.
- Over-Harvesting: Harvesting for too long in established beds can also weaken plants.
- Poor Soil Preparation: Asparagus needs well-drained, fertile soil.
- Neglecting Weeding: Weeds compete with asparagus for nutrients and water.
Asparagus Varieties: Choosing the Right One for Your Garden
Several asparagus varieties are available, each with its own characteristics. Some popular choices include:
| Variety | Characteristics | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jersey Knight | All-male hybrid, high yielding | Resistant to rust and fusarium wilt |
| Jersey Giant | All-male hybrid, large spears | Good flavor |
| Purple Passion | Purple spears, tender and sweet | Turns green when cooked |
| Mary Washington | Heirloom variety, reliable and productive | Susceptible to asparagus rust |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why do I have to wait so long to harvest asparagus?
Asparagus needs time to develop a strong root system, known as a crown. Harvesting too early, before the crown is well-established, will significantly weaken the plant, leading to reduced spear production and a shorter lifespan. The plant uses its energy to grow stems and leaves which feed the root system.
Can I harvest a few spears in the first year if they look really good?
It’s best to avoid harvesting any spears in the first year after planting crowns (or the first two years after planting seeds), even if they look tempting. Resist the urge! Allow the plant to focus solely on root development for long-term productivity.
What happens if I harvest asparagus too early?
Harvesting too early robs the plant of essential energy reserves. The roots are stunted and cannot provide the strength needed to grow quality spears, which results in poor spear production in subsequent years and overall decreased plant health.
How long does an asparagus bed last?
With proper care, an asparagus bed can last for 15-20 years or even longer! The key is to establish a healthy root system in the early years and avoid over-harvesting.
What kind of soil does asparagus need?
Asparagus thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Aim for a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting to improve drainage and fertility.
How deep should I plant asparagus crowns?
Plant asparagus crowns in a trench that is 6-8 inches deep. Space the crowns about 12-18 inches apart.
How often should I water asparagus?
Asparagus needs consistent moisture, especially during the first few years after planting. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall and soil conditions. Once established, water as needed to keep the soil moist but not soggy.
What kind of fertilizer should I use for asparagus?
Fertilize asparagus in the spring with a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10). You can also side-dress with compost or well-rotted manure. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of spear production.
How do I control weeds in my asparagus bed?
Weeds compete with asparagus for nutrients and water. Mulch around the plants with organic materials like straw or wood chips to suppress weed growth. Hand-pull any weeds that do emerge. Avoid using herbicides, as they can damage asparagus.
What pests and diseases affect asparagus?
Common asparagus pests include asparagus beetles and aphids. Diseases include asparagus rust and fusarium wilt. Choose disease-resistant varieties and practice good garden hygiene to prevent problems. Regularly inspect your plants for pests and diseases and take action promptly if you see any issues.
How do I know when to stop harvesting asparagus in the spring?
Stop harvesting asparagus when the spears become consistently thin, or when fern growth becomes vigorous. Allowing the plants to fern out in the summer helps replenish the root system for the following year’s harvest. Let the plants tell you when they’re ready to stop producing spears.
Can I grow asparagus in containers?
Yes, asparagus can be grown in containers, but it requires a large container (at least 18 inches in diameter) and well-drained potting mix. Container-grown asparagus may not be as productive as plants grown in the ground, but it’s a viable option for gardeners with limited space.