Growing Asparagus at home: A beginner’s guide to planting asparagus crowns

Asparagus, also known as Garden Asparagus and Sparrow grasses, is an ancient vegetable plant belonging to the Asparagaceae family and is scientifically named Asparagus officinalis. This plant is originated in the eastern Mediterranean and Asia Minor regions. It is famous for its soft and juicy spears and grown for its unique and gentle flavor. In addition to its high-end allure, asparagus is very versatile in cooking.

Ancient Egyptians were the first to grow Asparagus plants in 3000 BCE. Later, Romans loved this vegetable and developed advanced techniques for its growth and freezing. They would use the Alps to freeze Asparagus spears for use in winter. Interestingly, because of its popularity, Asparagus earned the name "Food of Kings" during the Renaissance period. Later, by the 18th century, Asparagus became available to the general public with improved cultivation strategies. 

Asparagus vegetable benefits both commercial and home gardeners. People usually buy stored Asparagus, but it often loses its quality during storage and transport. So, planting Asparagus at home provides tastier and fresher spears. Planting Asparagus is not only rewarding but also fun and good. It makes the home garden look great and brings peace of mind.

Growcycle offers the best tools for growing Asparagus in home gardens and commercial settings. It offers an extensive range of agricultural products and services and equips growers with modern farming technologies. Growcycle offers customized solutions based on cultivation level, meaning customers can get expert solutions for either commercial or home planting to make their sowing successful.

Botanical Description

Asparagus leaves look like tiny scales. The plant has special stems called cladodes that work like leaves to make food through photosynthesis. These cladodes are grouped together and have a needle-like shape, each about 1 mm wide. Because of these cladodes, the stems look feathery. The stems can grow up to about 150 cm tall and are usually quite sturdy.

The roots of Asparagus plants form groups called crowns. These crowns produce young, edible stems known as spears. The root system consists of a deep and wide network of fibrous roots that strengthen the plant, anchor it into the soil, and provide nutrition. 

Asparagus usually looks green. White Asparagus covers the young spears with soil to prevent the development of chlorophyll. So, they look white because of the absence of chlorophyll. Similarly, the foliage, also called ferns, is also green and has a feathery appearance. Asparagus flowers are quite beautiful, small in size, bell-shaped, and yellowish or greenish-white. The young Asparagus stems are safe to eat, but the small red berries on the plant can be very dangerous to people.

Nutritional Benefits

Asparagus is rich in nutrients and low in calories, making it a favorable edible choice. A 90 grams cooked asparagus consists of: 

• Calories: 20
• Protein: 2.2 grams
• Fat: 0.2 grams
• Fiber: 1.8 grams
• Vitamin C: 12% of the RDI
• Vitamin A: 18% of the RDI
• Vitamin K: 57% of the RDI
• Folate: 34% of the RDI
• Potassium: 6% of the RDI
• Phosphorous: 5% of the RDI
• Vitamin E: 7% of the RDI

It is high in antioxidants and protects the body's cells from oxidative stress. It helps the body destroy free radicals to avoid cancer-like chronic diseases. Rich insoluble fiber also supports digestive health by regulating bowel movements and curbing chronic constipation. It boosts positive gut bacteria and kick-starts metabolism. 

Asparagus is a rich source of folate, which is Vitamin B9, and it promotes a healthy pregnancy in females. It prevents neural tube defects and streamlines the DNA formation in the developing fetus. Asparagus also helps maintain blood pressure, especially if it spikes. It is capable of excreting excessive salt from the body to prevent hypertension. It has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and, most importantly, anti-cancer properties. Its high vitamin K content supports bone repair and formation. It also supports healthy blood clotting to prevent blood loss. 

Generally, Asparagus is safe and healthy to eat. However, it is recommended to consume it with a personal physician’s advice and in moderate form because of some possible allergic reactions. Also, Asparagus acid can react with certain medications and kidney conditions, leading to severe health issues.

Different Varieties of Asparagus

The Asparagus plant is divided into various varieties due to color, taste, hardiness, and texture differences. Green, white, purple, and wild Asparagus forms are widely available. Veggie gardeners grow these types because some can be consumed, and others are used for aesthetics. Here are some regular varieties of this versatile plant.

1. Green Asparagus

The green type can be easily accessed at grocery stores and farmer shops worldwide. This veggie is popular due to its rich nutritional facts, which include folic acid, potassium, and vitamins. Its vibrant green color becomes brighter after cooking, but its rich fiber content can become tougher to digest for some individuals. 

2. Purple Asparagus

The presence of anthocyanins, a beneficial antioxidant, gives purple Asparagus its shade. The quantity of natural sugar in purple Asparagus is also higher than in green, offering a sweet and delicate taste. The low fiber enhances its tenderness, but the outer skin can be slightly harder. Proper cooking minimizes the hardness while maintaining taste and color.

3. White Asparagus

White Asparagus is a well-known ingredient in European meals for its mild and refined flavor. The harvesting process is different and challenging for formers. It is planted underground and covered with a thick soil layer or black plastic to prevent photosynthesis. The lower interaction with the sun gives it a white color.

4. Wild Asparagus

The name wild showcases that this variety is found in wild environments and can be seen in every country. The moist soil is most suitable for its growth, so wild asparagus can be observed on coastal cliffs and dunes. It looks different from its cultivated cousins because it has a long and thinner crop. 

5. Trinorma Asparagus

This type is a hybrid of purple, white, and green Asparagus. Its three-color spectrum gives a striking visual. The use of Trinoma in meals gives a trio of flavors. The earthiness of the green variety, tanginess of purple, and sweetness of white can be enjoyed collectively. Its nutritional value is also a package of three-in-one. Antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins can be taken in one dish.

6. Atlas Asparagus

Atlas is adaptive enough to survive in all weather, whether it is frost, drought, or shiny exposure. Its stability is maintained well. This variety's primary color is green, but the tips have a purple tinge. The high yield potential makes it ideal for home gardens. The spears of Atlas are thick in appearance but soft in texture and edible.

7. African Asparagus Fern

This species' beautiful lacy fern-like foliage makes it ideal for decorating the garden. The bridal creeper is another name for this fern because the early-growing tips transform later into foliage. Its indoor planting is widespread, and the vibrant colors of African Asparagus give the garden an aesthetic look.

The Asparagus Growing Cycle

Asparagus does not grow instantly; it takes years from seedling to crop. As it grows slowly, its yielding ability continues for decades. Spring and early summer are considered ideal for seed germination. 

The dormancy phase of Asparagus starts in the winter months and ends in early spring. After being sown under a controlled environment, the germination process is continuous for  2-3 weeks. Within one year, the seedling stage starts in pots or nursery beds. A slow but steady process results in developing the immature spears. 

The plants require proper care and prevention from harvesting the spears at this stage. Asparagus takes 3 - 4 years to grow from seeds to harvestable spears. 

A Beginner’s Guide to Planting Asparagus Crowns

Patience is required to plant long-term productive asparagus. The process involves implementing several steps to ensure a safe and healthy plantation. Here's a clear guide on how to plant Asparagus:

1. Preparation for Planting

For proper growth, Asparagus needs a specific pH and sunlight. It grows better in a spot where a minimum of 6 - 7 hours of sunlight can interact. The soil of the selected location should be well-drained and have a pH of 6.5 - 7.

When planting, it's important to consider the climate because care tips vary with temperature. For healthy growth, it's best to plant in the spring. Choose crowns with strong roots and a light brown color for the best results. Roots that are 6-8 inches long are ideal; avoid very long or tangled roots, as they can be difficult to handle.

2. Soil Preparation

After carefully evaluating and fixing the above key points, the planting starts by preparing the soil. A pH meter can be used to check the selected soil. It should not pool water after the rain and must be well-drained. The available soil can be amended by adding organic matter. The adjustments will resolve the pH and drainage concerns.

Creating raised beds is a good option for more successful planting. The beds must be 48 inches wide and 96 inches long for proper Asparagus growth. The Asparagus crowns must be planted in loose soil where the roots can develop healthily. The soil should be loose and 6 - 8 inches deep to prepare the planting trench.

3. Planting Asparagus Crowns

After digging the soil, placing crowns is a gentle step that needs special handling and care to prevent root damage. At planting time, crowns should be covered with 2 inch soil. The remaining trench will be filled gradually with the growth of young shoots. Spacing considerations are necessary to help the crown spread its roots. 6 - 12 inches of space is necessary for individual crowns of a single trench. 

Water the planting crowns well to help their roots settle into the soil. Keep watering them regularly to support their growth, but avoid overwatering, which can harm the roots. The soil should stay moist but not waterlogged. Adding extra fertilizer can help them grow faster. If the weather and soil are suitable, growers can use mulch made from old manure or leaves to keep the soil moist and prevent weeds from growing.

4. First-Year Care

In the first year of growth, the crown must be watered once a week. If the soil does not receive weekly rain, the patches should be dipped in one inch of water. Sandy soil needs more watering repentance than heavy clay. Growers should follow the schedule according to their soil type.

Weed management is also mandatory for health stability because weeds disturb the growth cycle by competing for water, light, and soil nutrients. Hand weeding could be the easiest way to remove weeds from rows. Fertilization also increases growth speed. A balanced fertilizer can be sprinkled directly, or mixing it with a water source is acceptable.

Beetles can harm Asparagus plants by laying eggs on the spears, which can hurt the plant. Growers can remove them by picking them off by hand or putting them in soapy water. Using a good fungicide spray can also help get rid of these pests.

5. Second-Year Care

It is the time of spears' development, and negligence at this point can cause pests to attack. Slow-release fertilizer can be used throughout the growing season, but before applying any fertilizer, the instructions on the packaging can guide for accurate use. The growing beds must be kept moist, and continued weeding is required in the second year of growth. The ferns should not be harvested in the second year to grow them into developed spears. 

Monitoring for pests and disease attacks is also essential for fern growth. Gardeners should monitor any signs of disease or pests. Asparagus aphids are pale green and can be observed visibly due to their 3/32-inch length. Basic sanitation and spacing are crucial to maintaining Asparagus throughout the growth period. The ferns must have support for their upright direction; otherwise, heavy wind can damage them.

6. Ongoing Care and Maintenance (Year 3 and Beyond)

When the ferns become ready for spears, it is the year to receive rewarded results from Asparagus planting. Farmers should monitor the soil pH level to apply the required changes. Additional debris or unnecessary plants can be removed for smooth development. The incorporation of soil and fertilizing material is also helpful for soil structure.

Growers can check the health of their plantation by looking at the ferns. If they’re healthy and strong, it means the plantation is on the right track. After the growing season ends, cut the ferns back to the ground. This helps prevent diseases and pests. Do this when the ferns start turning yellow or brown.

7. Harvesting Asparagus

Growers can start harvesting after the plants have grown for three years. The harvesting period lasts for 2-3 weeks, but in following years, it can be extended to 4-6 weeks. When growers harvest the spears, they should be 6-8 inches long. Their tips should be tightly closed, and growers should pick them before they start to open and become ferns.

A sharp knife or Asparagus cutter is most suitable for fine cutting because crowns should be safe for future growth. The spears grow rapidly during the cutting season, so daily monitoring is essential to cut fresh spears. After the season ends, the remaining spears should be left for fern growth. These ferns will store energy for the next photosynthesis reactions. These ferns required the same repetition of care and fertilizers to grow. 

Companion Planting and Crop Rotation

The best companion plants for Asparagus include tomatoes because they emit solanine. Solanine can repel and paralyze Asparagus beetles. Similarly, Parsley can fight off pesticides and boost the flavor of Asparagus. Ladybugs and lacewings are attractive parasites for Asparagus, and dill cultivation is very beneficial for attracting them. Moreover, nasturtiums are the best option as a trap crop for aphids. 

Marigold plants act as solid barriers to save Asparagus from nematodes. Strawberries are a good source of soil mixture preservation, while Rhubarb controls the weeds and keeps the soil’s existing nutrients preserved, adding more nutrients. Similarly, horseradish is a natural weed suppressor, and spinach can beneficially use the space between Asparagus plants. 

However, potatoes and alliums like onion, garlic, leeks, and carrots should be avoided when growing near Asparagus. They compete for the same nutrients, block the space and stunt growth. 

Identifying & Fixing Common Issues

To achieve the best results, looking closely at the problems that can affect Asparagus growth is important. By understanding these issues, growers can prevent damage to the plant and increase its yield. Here are some common problems:

• Thin or Weak Spears

The spears mostly mature after three years of proper growth. So, spears harvested from plants under three years old or over ten years old are mostly thin and disappointing. Waiting for proper plant maturity until three years old for younger plants and replacing crowns or dividing older ones are the best ways to cope with the issue. 

Nutrient deficiency also causes spears to be thin. Asparagus is a heavy feeder, requiring a proper nutrient supply, so a balanced fertilizer application is crucial to getting healthy and fresh spears.

• Irregular Growth Patterns

This issue is most obvious in the majority of Asparagus plants. It is usually caused by early ferning, which occurs because of high temperatures and irregular watering patterns.

Consistent watering is the key to avoiding this issue. Moreover, it is also caused by crown movements. Over time, crowns migrate upwards, which leads to growth disruption. Some pets, like beetles, can stunt growth or make it irregular, so controlling them through organic and chemical ways can reverse the issue. 

• Yellowing Ferns

Asparagus can have a problem with yellowing ferns. This often happens because of too much water, insufficient light, lack of nutrients, pests, or diseases. To fix this, ensure the soil drains well to prevent root rot. The minimum required sunlight is 6 hours a day, but if the sunlight is not sufficient, artificial grow lights are recommended to replace the natural light. 

• Poor yields

It can be annoying when poor yields happen. The main reasons are low pH, bad soil preparation, old plant crowns, and, most often, not enough fertilizer.

To fix it, use nitrogen-rich fertilizers regularly, make sure the soil has plenty of organic matter, add lime to balance the soil pH, and replace the crowns every 10 years.

FAQs

How do I fertilize Asparagus plants for optimal growth?

The key steps to achieve optimal fertilization results are well-drained soil preparation with well-rotted manure, early spring fertilization, post-harvest fertilization, annual maintenance, and avoiding over-fertilization. 

What are the signs that Asparagus is ready to be harvested?

The major signs to look for before harvesting include the height, thickness, and tip condition. The ideal height is a maximum of 10 inches, while a half-inch thickness ensures that Asparagus is ready to harvest. Early morning and early evening are the ideal times to harvest. Cutting spears with a sharp knife rather than pulling them out is the most effective way of harvesting. 

How do I protect Asparagus plants during the winter?

Cutting the foliage back to about an inch is crucial to preventing diseases and preparing the plant for dormancy. Similarly, mulching helps retain necessary moisture while ceasing watering prevents root rot. 

The Bottom Line

Planting Asparagus is a sustainable way to get fresh produce, but patience is the key. It can take a few years to mature fully, but the results can easily last 10 to 15 years. The most important thing is choosing the appropriate variety for the respective climate and soil conditions. Similarly, correct planting depth and well-drained soil boost strong root development.

Growcycle is dedicated to supporting plant lovers and growers worldwide. They provide essential farming tools and also offer insurance and financing services. The company is known for being trustworthy, reliable, and knowledgeable. Consulting with Growcycle can accelerate your Asparagus growth rate. 

Disclaimer: This material is for informational purposes only and should not be relied on for legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice.