Introduction
Growing my own asparagus has always been on my bucket list! However, several factors have held me back over the years. First, I never had enough garden space to dedicate to an asparagus patch. Second, the time investment from initial planting to the first harvest can be long. There is no immediate gratification when growing this vegetable — this is a long-term commitment.
This spring, I’ve finally decided to take the plunge. My new yard has the space to make this dream a reality. Why not join me on this journey? Whether you plant your own patch or follow along with mine, let’s grow asparagus together!
Finding the perfect spot to plant asparagus
Asparagus is a perennial plant, meaning you plant it once and it returns year after year. Because of this, choosing the right location is crucial.
- Sunlight: Asparagus requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Soil: It thrives in loose, slightly acidic soil with good drainage.
- Watering: Consistent, even watering is essential.
- Companion Planting: Avoid mixing asparagus with annual vegetables that need to be planted and removed each season, as disturbing the roots can harm its growth.
What is an Asparagus Crown?
An asparagus crown is the underground stem of the plant, used to grow new spears. While it may resemble a rhizome, it is not technically one. Rhizomes are horizontal underground stems that sprout new shoots and roots, whereas asparagus crowns serve as a storage organ with roots attached. The spears, which emerge from the crown, are the edible part of the plant.
When to Plant
Asparagus crowns should be planted in early spring when the soil is soft enough to work. In my growing zone (Zone 7), this means planting in mid-March to early April.
Where to buy asparagus crowns
How to Plant
- Prepare the soil by loosening it to ensure good drainage.
- Soak the crowns in water for about an hour
- Dig trenches about 6 inches deep.
- Plant crowns 18 inches apart in the trenches. Trim dried roots or very long roots.
- Add nutrients by incorporating a high-nitrogen plant food into the soil.
- Spread out the roots around each crown before covering with soil.
- Using raised beds maximizes space. Just ensure crowns remain 18 inches apart.
- Mulch the soil to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
- Water evenly on a consistent basis.
- Hand-pull weeds to prevent root and crown disturbance.
When to Harvest
Patience is key with asparagus! It typically takes 2-3 years before you can begin harvesting. To speed up the process, I opted for 2-year-old crowns instead of 1-year-old ones. This will allow me to harvest a few spears the first year, hopefully!
- Year 1: No harvesting—let the crowns establish.
- Year 2: Limited harvesting to a few weeks.
- Year 3 and beyond: Full harvesting season, lasting about 4 weeks.
- Lifespan: Once established, an asparagus bed can produce for 10-15 years!
- Yield: One plant can produce up to ½ pound of spears each season.
- How to Harvest: Use garden shears to cut spears near the base.
The Mystery of Asparagus Pee
Ever wondered why your urine smells after eating asparagus? I did some research, and here’s what I found: Asparagus contains asparagusic acid, a harmless compound unique to the vegetable. When digested, it breaks down into sulfur-containing compounds, which are excreted in urine, producing that distinct smell.
Start your asparagus crowns!
So there you have it—everything you need to know about growing asparagus! Whether you decide to plant your own or just enjoy following along, I hope this inspires you to embrace the rewarding challenge of growing this delicious perennial vegetable.
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