Helpful tips

How do you plant asparagus seeds?

How do you plant asparagus seeds?

Sow asparagus seeds indoors eight to 12 weeks before transplanting outside after the risk of frost has passed. Plant the seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep in a sterile seed mix. Place the tray or pots in a sunny, warm location and keep the soil moist. Germination may take 14 to 21 days or longer.

What is the best time to plant asparagus seeds?

It’s recommended that you start asparagus seeds indoors or in a greenhouse in mid-February to May under bright lighting. Soil temperatures for seed germination should be between 70 and 85 degrees F. (21-29 C.).

How long does it take to grow asparagus from seed?

21 days
Asparagus seeds can take 21 days — and even far longer — to germinate. A savvy gardener knows to not give up because young shoots may be about to emerge. The seedlings themselves require several weeks to reach two inches in height, the size right for transplanting into a growing bed.

What month do you plant asparagus?

Plant asparagus in spring or fall in a sunny spot with nutrient-rich, well-drained soil. Asparagus takes a few seasons to mature but will reap a harvest for 15 to 30 years, so choose a planting location that will go undisturbed for a long time.

Should I soak asparagus seeds before planting?

Some seeds can take as much as 8 weeks to germinate. That’s one reason why the seeds need to be started so early in the spring. Pre-soaking the seeds in lukewarm water for a few hours before planting can help speed germination, but it’s not strictly necessary.

Does asparagus like sun or shade?

Asparagus needs at least 8 hours of sun per day. Since asparagus is a long-lived perennial, do not plant where trees or tall shrubs might eventually shade the plants or compete for nutrients and water. Soil – The crown and root system can grow to an enormous size: 5 to 6 feet in diameter and 10 to 15 feet deep.

Do asparagus plants spread?

Remember, asparagus roots will spread over time but diminish in production. Divide them every three years or so for a non-stop harvest year after year.

How many asparagus do you get from one plant?

Tip. For each person, plant between five and 20 asparagus plants, depending on how often you plan to enjoy the vegetable. Each plant yields about 1/2 pound of asparagus spears each harvest.

Does asparagus spread on its own?

Yes, asparagus plants will spread as they grow. From humble beginnings (seeds or small crowns), asparagus plants can grow quite tall and wide. Asparagus spears may start off small, but they can grow several feet tall!

What can you not plant near asparagus?

There are two main crops to avoid growing alongside asparagus:

  • Alliums. Alliums like leeks, garlic, and onion sharing the soil with asparagus are said to stunt its growth.
  • Potatoes. Asparagus, on the other hand, stunts the growth of potatoes when they share the same space.

Does asparagus multiply?

Asparagus plants are long-lived and vigorous. When asparagus plants are growing in a sunny site with good drainage, proper irrigation, and adequate nutrients, the plants multiply and become crowded over time. During this time, a healthy plant should produce around 20 spears.

Should I let my asparagus go to seed?

Ferning out in asparagus is actually a good thing, as it indicates that photosynthesis is being promoted, therefore, nutrition production and absorption increases. As the asparagus ferns out, female spears produce green berries that eventually turn red. These berries/seeds, however, are unlikely to produce new plants.

How do you raise asparagus?

When the raised bed is properly prepared, the asparagus plants can flourish there for 10 to 20 years of growth. Turn the soil in the raised bed with a garden fork or tiller to at least 12 inches. Till compost into the soil to increase the nutrients.

How do you grow asparagus?

To grow asparagus from seeds, start them indoors in two-inch pots as early as the month of February. Soak the seeds for two hours before planting. You should plant the seeds at a depth of around a half inch. They need to be set someplace warm — warmer soil temperatures can help speed up germination time.

How do you care for asparagus?

When given proper care, asparagus plants can live and produce for up to 30 years. Fertilize asparagus in the spring during the first three years of growth. Use a balanced fertilizer, such as 12-12-12, and apply at a rate of 2 pounds per 100 square feet.

Where can you buy asparagus?

Buy asparagus from a grocery store or farmers market. Fresh asparagus is a luxury vegetable, and its prices tend to reflect this. You can buy fresh, frozen, or canned asparagus. If you’re buying fresh, look for bright green or violet-tinged spears.