Want fresh, homegrown asparagus? This comprehensive guide takes you through every step, from tiny seed to succulent spear. While store-bought asparagus is readily available, nothing compares to the flavor and satisfaction of harvesting your own. Yes, starting from seed requires patience—about three years until your first harvest—but the reward is years of abundant, delicious asparagus. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, get ready to grow amazing asparagus in your backyard!
Choosing Your Asparagus Adventure: Seeds or Crowns?
Before we delve into the specifics of growing from seed, let’s address a common question: should you start with seeds or crowns? Both methods have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your gardening style, budget, and timeline.
Is it better to grow asparagus from seed or crown?
Seeds: A Gardener’s Labor of Love
Starting from seed offers the satisfaction of nurturing a plant from its earliest stages. It’s also the most economical option.
- Variety: Seed starting unlocks a diverse world of asparagus varieties, from vibrant purple spears to heirloom types with unique flavors. Explore online retailers like True Leaf Market and Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds or consider harvesting seeds from mature plants in the fall (look for bright red berries).
- Cost-Effective: Seeds are significantly cheaper than crowns, making this method ideal for large asparagus patches or budget-conscious gardeners.
- Long-Term Vigor: Some gardeners believe that asparagus grown from seed develops stronger root systems, leading to more robust and productive plants in the long run.
Crowns: The Fast Track to Asparagus
Crowns, essentially one- to two-year-old roots, offer a quicker route to harvest.
- Faster Harvest: Crowns shave off a year or two compared to seed-starting, allowing you to enjoy asparagus sooner.
- Easier Establishment: Planting crowns is generally easier than transplanting seedlings, making it a good option for beginners.
- Reliability: Crowns offer a higher success rate, especially for gardeners in colder climates or those with shorter growing seasons.
Seeds vs. Crowns: A Detailed Comparison
To help you decide, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the two methods:
| Feature | Seeds | Crowns |
|---|---|---|
| Time to Harvest | 3 years | 2 years |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Effort | Higher (early weeding, seedling care) | Lower (initial planting) |
| Variety | Wider selection | Limited selection |
| Plant Vigor | Potentially higher long-term | Established initially |
Growing Asparagus from Seed: A Step-by-Step Guide
How long does it take to grow asparagus from seed?
Seed Starting: Nurturing the Tiny Promises
- Seed Selection: Choose your desired variety considering yield, disease resistance, and flavor profile. Popular choices include Jersey Giant, Purple Passion, and Mary Washington.
- Indoor Sowing: Start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last expected frost. Plant ¼ inch deep in seed-starting mix. Should I Soak Asparagus Seeds Before Planting? Germination typically takes 2-8 weeks.
- Seedling Care: Provide warm soil temperature (70-85°F) and consistent moisture. A seedling heat mat can be beneficial.
- Transplanting: When seedlings reach 4-6 inches tall and the danger of frost has passed, transplant them outdoors.
Choosing the Perfect Spot
Asparagus thrives in full sun (6-8 hours daily) and well-drained soil (pH 6.5-7.5). A soil test can help determine your soil’s pH.
Preparing the Bed
Enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure. Consider creating raised beds or digging deep trenches (12-18 inches) for improved drainage.
Planting and Spacing
Space seedlings 12-18 inches apart, with rows 3-4 feet apart. This ample spacing allows for mature plant growth and spread.
Year-by-Year Growth and Harvest
- Year One: The Root Awakening: Focus on root development. Water regularly, mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, and resist harvesting.
- Year Two: A Glimpse of Green: A limited harvest (2-3 weeks) is possible. Maintain consistent watering and weeding.
- Year Three and Beyond: The Harvest!: Enjoy a full harvest (6-8 weeks). Harvest spears when 6-8 inches tall with closed tips. Stop harvesting when spears become thin.
Ongoing Care and Maintenance
Pest and Disease Control
Asparagus beetles, small reddish-orange insects, can sometimes infest plants. Regularly inspect your plants and handpick beetles or use insecticidal soap for larger infestations.
Overwintering
In late fall or early spring, cut back dead stalks to ground level and apply mulch to protect crowns from winter cold, suppress weeds, and conserve moisture.
Additional Tips for Success
- Soaking Seeds: Soaking asparagus seeds for a couple of hours before planting may improve germination rates. Should I Soak Asparagus Seeds Before Planting?
- Seed Scarification: Lightly scratching or nicking the seed coat before soaking may further enhance water absorption and germination.
- Experimentation: If you’re curious about both methods, try starting a few seeds indoors and planting a few crowns. This allows you to learn about asparagus care while still enjoying a quicker initial harvest from the crowns.
- Seed Saving: In the fall, collect the bright red berries from mature asparagus plants. Let them dry, gently crush them to release the seeds, and store them for next season.
- Companion Planting: Consider planting beneficial companions like tomatoes, basil, or parsley near your asparagus to potentially enhance growth and deter pests. More research is ongoing in this area, and results may vary.
Troubleshooting
- Slow Germination: Ensure consistent soil moisture and warmth. A seedling heat mat can greatly improve germination rates.
- Seedling Damping-Off: This fungal disease can affect young seedlings. Use sterile potting mix and avoid overwatering.
- Pest Issues: Monitor for asparagus beetles and other pests. Handpicking or insecticidal soap can be effective control methods.
Conclusion
Growing asparagus, whether from seed or crown, is a rewarding experience that connects you with the natural world. While the journey from seed to spear may require patience, the flavor of your first homegrown asparagus will make it all worthwhile.
How long does it take to grow asparagus from seed?
Growing asparagus from seed is a long-term investment, taking about 3-4 years to reach full harvest.
The Asparagus Timeline: From Seed to Supper
- Year 1: Focuses on root development. Minimal above-ground growth.
- Year 2: Above-ground growth begins. Very limited harvest (only a few spears) might be possible if started from crowns, but it’s best to wait.
- Year 3: Limited harvest for seed-started asparagus. Full harvest for crown-planted asparagus.
- Year 4: Full harvest for seed-started asparagus.
Should I Soak Asparagus Seeds Before Planting?
Soaking asparagus seeds before planting is not essential, but it can be beneficial. Soaking for a couple of hours in room-temperature water may soften the seed coat, potentially improving water absorption and leading to faster germination. While the scientific evidence is not conclusive, many gardeners find it to be a helpful practice.
Is it better to grow asparagus from seed or crown?
The best method depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you’re patient and budget-conscious, seeds offer a rewarding long-term investment. If you prefer a quicker harvest and easier establishment, crowns might be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice is yours!
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