Growing Asparagus
Growing asparagus is something I’ve wanted to do for years (along with rhubarb – you’re next!). I love to eat asparagus, and I figured it would be even more rewarding to grow it myself. So, I set out to figure out how to do that.
Asparagus takes at least two years to get established, meaning I won’t be harvesting it until year three. However, it can keep producing for 15-20 years. That is an investment of time that I am willing to make.
How to Plant Asparagus
Choose a site that gets 6-8 hours of sunlight per day, making sure that the area has good drainage. Asparagus roots do not want to sit in pools of water.
Dig a trench:
- Asparagus crowns need to be planted 6 inches deep, so be sure to dig a trench that is a around 12 inches deep to allow room for the roots to grow deep into the loose soil.
- Dig the trench 12 inches wide
- Space any additional trenches 3 feet apart.
Amend the Soil: I chose earthworm castings to mix into the loosened soil. Work in a 2-4 inch layer of aged manure, compost, or a good soil mix.
Find the crown, and plant it 6 inches deep, spacing each crown 12 inches apart. Spread out the roots around the top of the crown when planting.
The Waiting Begins
I’m excited my baby asparagus have come up, and now I get to nurture and tend it until I can start harvesting in a few years. It’s hard to wait, but I know it will be worth it!
Each foot of row of asparagus can produce half a pound a season. I plan to extend the bed every year to get even more, but for now, I wait.
Check Out the Video
Thanks for reading, my friends! Happy homesteading, and I’ll see you next time.
Rebekah
Bonus Recipes
Asparagus and Pea Frittata: A delightfully light meal featuring spring asparagus that is perfect with salad, crusty bread, or alone.
Spring Salad with Gold Potatoes and Asparagus: A hearty, springy salad that uses the best of the season.
