How to Grow Asparagus: A Perennial Vegetable for Years of Harvests

Planting Asparagus

Asparagus thrives in a sunny spot with compost-enriched, well-draining soil. After 1–2 years of establishment, you'll harvest spears for many springs.

Sow It

Dig a trench 6–12 inches deep, 12 inches wide. Space crowns 18 inches apart (25 crowns for a family of four).

Cover It

Cover crowns, firm soil, water well. Keep soil level with surrounding ground.

Harvest It

Spears ready at 8–9 inches tall. Avoid heavy harvesting first two years to build deep roots.

Cut It

Cut or snap spears slightly above soil level.

Managing Pests

Asparagus beetles eat spears and foliage. Hand-pick beetles and eggs; drop in soapy water.

Foliage Care

Post-harvest, ferny foliage grows 4–6 feet. Keep watered, weeded, mulched all summer. Cut stems to 2-inch stubs in late fall.