Asparagus, which are known botanically as Asparagus Officinalis, are a type of vegetable that can easily be grown at home. Continue reading to learn the basics of growing asparagus as well as common mistakes to avoid along the way.
Best Time to Plant Asparagus
This will depend largely on your local climate, but as a rule of thumb, begin to plant the asparagu seeds in the early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked. This is the best time to ensure that the seedlings survive the weather.
To check when asparagus are most likely to thrive in your area, see the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map. If you live outside the US, do a quick search for ‘plant hardiness zone + [city]’.
How to Plant Asparagus the Right Way
There are a number of things to consider that will help you avoid some of the common mistakes of growing asparagus in your home garden.
Often overlooked, your soil can have a huge impact on how well your asparagus grow. Generally, your soil should be well-drained soils. Soil PH levels should be around 6.5 to 7.0.
roughly 6″ apart in rows. roughly 18″ apart in rows, keeping rows approximately 2′ apart. The seeds should be sowed at a depth of about .5″. For each plant, be sure to sow at least a few seeds to ensure that at least one of them will germinate.
Begin thinning your asparagu seedlings 3″-5″ apart. after one year, transplant to a permanent location where the plants can grow undisturbed.
How Much Sunlight is Needed to Grow Asparagus
The amount of sunlight is another key to a successful harvest. Too much sunlight will dry out your asparagus. Not enough sunlight will stunt your its growth or even kill it.
Ideally, your asparagus should be getting full sun, which means as much sunlight as you can possibly give it, or at least 6 hours or more.
How Much to Water Asparagus
As you’ve figured by now, a lot can have an impact on how well your asparagus do, and the amount of water is no different.
Ideally, the soil should be damp to touch; not soggy or bone dry. If the leaves on your asparagus begin to change colors or start to look droopy, you need to adjust how much water you’re giving it.
Unfortunately, if you give it too much or too little water, you can kill it, so it’s best to just keep an eye on it and water as needed.
How Long Does it Take Asparagus to Germinate and Grow?
Now the fun part begins and you get to watch your asparagus grow.
It takes approximately 14-21 days to germinate, and a total of 725-730 days from seed to harvest.
When to Harvest Asparagus
The best time to harvest your asparagus is when they are six to ten inches tall and about the diameter of your index finger.
Asparagus can grow up to about 7 feet (2.1 meters) .
What Can Asparagus Be Used For?
Food Use: Can be used as an appetizer, side dish, or in stir fry.
Flavor Profile: Fresh and mild.
Can Asparagus Grow in Pots and Containers?
Yes, but you would need a 36+ container because asparagus have long tab root. This can help control weeds and keep your plant from growing out of control.
It also gives you the flexibility to move your asparagus around if you need to adjust sunlight or bring it indoors to avoid harsh weather conditions.
Are Asparagus Safe for Bees?
Yes, asparagus are safe for bees.
According to GreenPeace.org, bees pollinate human food crops that make up about 90% of the world’s nutrition.
Given their importance in our ecosystem and food supply, I feel it is important to note that growing asparagus is bee-friendly.
