How to Grow Asparagus

A cool-season fruiting for the home garden across the warmer US.

Asparagus is a rewarding cool-season crop for backyard growers.

When to plant

Asparagus is a cool-season crop. In the South and Southwest, plant in fall through winter when the heat eases. See your region on the asparagus page for exact timing.

Varieties

• Mary Washington, Classic productive heirloom (Southern Exposure Seed Exchange)
• Jersey Knight, Vigorous all-male hybrid (nurseries)

How to grow it

• Sun & soil: full sun, rich well-drained soil with even moisture.
• Spacing: about 40 cm (16 in) between plants.
• Sowing: sow about 15 cm deep.
• Water: roughly 6 L per plant every 3 days in hot weather.

Pests & problems

Watch for Asparagus beetle and Slugs. In humid regions, Crown rot and Rust can appear, so space for airflow and water at the roots in the morning.

Harvest

Asparagus is usually ready to harvest within roughly 24 months once established. Pick regularly to keep plants productive.

When to plant in your region

Pick your region to see exactly when to plant asparagus where you garden.

See also: Asparagus in the plant library →

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