Asparagus officinalis, commonly known as asparagus, is a popular perennial vegetable prized for its tender and flavorful spears. Known for its longevity and productivity, heirloom asparagus can produce a bountiful harvest for up to 20 years or more when well cared for. This heirloom asparagus planting guide will walk you through the process of planting heirloom asparagus, from seed starting to harvesting, providing you with the knowledge needed to grow this garden favorite.
Quick Start Heirloom Asparagus Planting Guide – Complete Planting Guide Below
Asparagus is a garden perennial that is best adapted to sandy soils in moderate climates. For best production, Asparagus plants prefer a deeply dug, well-prepared bed, with lots of organic matter. Heirloom Asparagus seeds can be started indoors 2-3 months before your last frost (for best results), or direct sow outdoors when the soil has warmed. Soak seeds in warm water for 24 hrs. before planting. Plant seeds ¼” deep in sterile seeding mix. Germination should occur in 14-21 days in soil 65-80°F. Set out Asparagus seedlings 10-18″ apart, in full sun.
The Complete Planting Guide for Heirloom Asparagus: From Seed to Harvest
Table of Contents
Understanding Heirloom Asparagus
Heirloom asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is an open-pollinated variety that has been passed down through generations, retaining its original characteristics. As a garden perennial, it thrives in sandy soils and moderate climates, making it well-suited for many home gardeners. While the plant does best in sandy soil, it can adapt to other soil types with proper preparation and care.
Growing asparagus from heirloom varieties not only allows you to enjoy a consistent harvest each year but also preserves traditional gardening practices. The open pollinated nature of heirloom asparagus means it can be grown from seed, allowing gardeners to continue cultivating and saving seeds for future use.
Preparing the Planting Site
A successful heirloom asparagus planting starts with site preparation. Asparagus plants thrive in well-drained, nutrient-rich soils that are deeply dug and full of organic matter. Here’s what to keep in mind when preparing your planting bed:
- Soil Preparation: Choose a location that receives full sunlight, at least 6-8 hours a day. The soil should be loose, well-draining, and enriched with organic matter such as compost or aged manure. Avoid areas with heavy clay or poorly drained soils, as these conditions can lead to root rot and other issues. For sandy soils, adding organic matter helps improve nutrient retention and moisture levels.
- Bed Depth: Since asparagus roots can grow quite deep, it is essential to prepare the soil to a depth of 12-18 inches. Turn the soil over and remove any rocks or debris, then mix in plenty of compost or well-aged manure to provide the nutrients the plants will need.
- Soil pH: Asparagus grows best in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Test the soil pH before planting, and adjust as necessary using lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.
Starting Heirloom Asparagus from Seed
Growing asparagus from seed takes more time and patience compared to planting crowns (established roots), but it can be rewarding. To ensure a successful start, follow these steps:
- Seed Preparation: Soak the heirloom asparagus seeds in warm water for 24 hours before planting. This helps soften the seed coat, encouraging faster and more consistent germination.
- Indoor Seed Starting: For the best results, start seeds indoors 2-3 months before the last expected frost date in your area. Use a sterile seed starting mix and plant the seeds ¼ inch deep. Maintain soil temperatures between 65-80°F for optimal germination, which usually occurs within 14-21 days. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Transplanting Seedlings: Once the asparagus seedlings have grown to about 10-12 weeks old, or have at least two sets of true leaves, they can be hardened off and transplanted outdoors. Harden off the seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over a period of 7-10 days.
Planting Heirloom Asparagus Outdoors
Whether you are transplanting seedlings or direct sowing seeds, the outdoor planting process is crucial to the plant’s long-term health and productivity. Here’s how to get started:
- Timing: If direct sowing, wait until the soil has warmed to at least 50°F. For transplanting, ensure the danger of frost has passed, and the soil temperature is suitable for growth.
- Spacing: Set out asparagus seedlings 10-18 inches apart in rows that are spaced 3-4 feet apart. This allows the plants to develop a robust root system while ensuring good air circulation to reduce the risk of disease.
- Trench Planting: For an efficient heirloom asparagus planting guide, consider planting in trenches. Dig a trench 6-8 inches deep and place the seedlings or crowns at the bottom. Cover with 2-3 inches of soil. As the asparagus grows, gradually fill in the trench with more soil until it is level with the surrounding ground.
Caring for Your Asparagus Plants
Asparagus is a low-maintenance perennial once established, but proper care in the first few years will ensure strong growth and abundant harvests for decades. Here are some essential care tips:
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during the first year after planting to help the plants establish a strong root system. Asparagus prefers deep watering, about 1-2 inches of water per week. In subsequent years, water regularly during dry spells to maintain healthy growth.
- Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the plants to help retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Mulching also adds organic matter to the soil as it decomposes.
- Fertilizing: Top-dress the asparagus bed with compost or a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring before the spears begin to emerge. Repeat this after the last harvest to replenish nutrients and encourage healthy fern growth.
- Weeding: Keep the bed free of weeds, especially in the first couple of years. Weeds compete with asparagus for nutrients and water, which can hinder growth.
Harvesting Heirloom Asparagus
Patience is key when it comes to harvesting asparagus. If planting heirloom asparagus from seed, it’s crucial to wait until the plants are at least three years old before harvesting to allow the roots to fully develop. Here’s what to know about harvesting:
- Timing: In the third year, begin harvesting when the spears are about 6-8 inches tall. Cut them at ground level or slightly below the soil surface using a sharp knife.
- Harvest Duration: Initially, limit harvesting to a few weeks. In subsequent years, you can extend the harvest period to 6-8 weeks. Once the spears start to thin out and become spindly, allow the plants to grow into ferns for the rest of the season to replenish energy for the next year.
- Fern Care: After the harvest, let the asparagus grow into tall, feathery ferns. These ferns are essential for photosynthesis, providing energy to the roots for next year’s growth. In late fall, trim the ferns back after they turn brown.
Storing and Preserving Heirloom Asparagus
Storing and preserving asparagus ensures you can enjoy its fresh flavor long after the harvest season ends. For short-term storage, keep freshly harvested asparagus spears in the refrigerator by placing the stems in a jar of water, much like a bouquet, and cover the tops with a loose plastic bag to retain moisture. This method can keep them fresh for up to a week.
For longer preservation, blanch the asparagus by briefly boiling the spears for 2-3 minutes, then quickly cool them in ice water. Once blanched, the spears can be frozen in airtight bags or containers for up to a year. Alternatively, you can pickle asparagus in a vinegar-based brine with spices for a tangy, shelf-stable treat that will last for several months.
9 Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
When growing heirloom asparagus, several challenges can arise that may affect the health and productivity of your plants. Being aware of these potential issues and knowing how to address them will help you maintain a thriving asparagus bed. Here are some of the most common challenges and effective strategies for overcoming them:
- Pests:
Asparagus beetles, aphids, and slugs are among the most common pests that can harm heirloom asparagus plants. Asparagus beetles feed on the spears and ferns, causing scarring and potentially stunting growth. Aphids, which feed on plant sap, can weaken the ferns, while slugs may chew on young shoots. To manage these pests, regularly inspect the plants and hand-pick beetles or use a strong stream of water to dislodge aphids. Applying diatomaceous earth around the base of the plants can deter slugs. For larger infestations, organic insecticidal soaps or neem oil can be effective treatments. - Diseases:
Asparagus is susceptible to several diseases, including Fusarium wilt, crown rot, and rust. Fusarium wilt is a soil-borne fungus that causes the roots to rot and the ferns to turn yellow and die. Crown rot, another fungal disease, affects the base of the plant and can lead to the plant’s death if not managed early. Rust appears as orange or brownish spots on the ferns, reducing the plant’s ability to photosynthesize effectively. To prevent these diseases, practice crop rotation and avoid planting asparagus in areas where other susceptible plants have grown recently. Ensure proper spacing between plants to promote good air circulation, and remove any diseased foliage immediately. Applying a balanced organic fertilizer can help boost the plant’s natural defenses. - Weed Competition:
Weeds compete with asparagus for nutrients, water, and sunlight, especially during the plant’s early years when it is still establishing itself. Keeping the planting bed weed-free is crucial for optimal growth. Use organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. Regularly hand-pull weeds or use a hoe to remove them, being careful not to disturb the asparagus roots. Avoid using chemical herbicides, as they can harm the asparagus plants. - Nutrient Deficiencies:
Asparagus is a heavy feeder and requires a steady supply of nutrients, particularly nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, for healthy growth. Signs of nutrient deficiencies include yellowing ferns, thin spears, or stunted growth. To address these issues, apply a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring and again after the harvest season to replenish soil nutrients. Adding compost or well-rotted manure to the bed each year can also improve soil fertility and provide a slow-release source of nutrients. - Frost Damage:
Late spring frosts can damage young asparagus spears, causing them to become limp and blackened. To protect your plants from unexpected cold snaps, cover them with a light layer of mulch, straw, or a frost cloth when frost is predicted. If frost damage does occur, trim off the affected spears; new growth will typically emerge once warmer weather returns. - Poor Drainage:
Asparagus plants are sensitive to waterlogged soils, which can lead to root rot and other fungal issues. If your garden soil is heavy clay or poorly drained, consider planting asparagus in raised beds to improve drainage. Amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost, can also help enhance soil structure and prevent waterlogging. Additionally, avoid overwatering and ensure that your asparagus bed is located in an area where excess water can easily drain away. - Over-Harvesting:
One common mistake is over-harvesting asparagus, especially during the first few years of growth. Harvesting too many spears before the plants are well-established can weaken the roots and reduce future yields. It is crucial to wait at least three years after planting seeds (or two years for crowns) before beginning to harvest, and even then, limit the first harvest to a few weeks. Gradually extend the harvest period in subsequent years, stopping once the spears start to thin out. Allowing the ferns to grow after the harvest period is essential for storing energy in the roots for the next season. - Soil Compaction:
Compacted soil can restrict root growth and reduce asparagus yields. If your soil tends to compact easily, avoid walking on the planting bed and consider using raised beds. Periodically aerating the soil around the plants with a garden fork can also help improve soil structure and support healthy root development. - Animal Damage:
Deer, rabbits, and other animals may be attracted to asparagus beds, especially when the young spears start to emerge. Fencing is one of the most effective ways to keep animals out. Use a wire mesh or electric fence to protect your asparagus bed from browsing wildlife. Additionally, applying natural deterrents, such as predator urine or strong-smelling repellents, can help keep animals at bay.
Conclusion
Growing heirloom asparagus is a rewarding and long-term investment, offering fresh, homegrown spears for decades. By following this heirloom asparagus planting guide, you can establish a productive bed with well-prepared soil, proper spacing, and diligent care during the early years. Understanding how to grow heirloom asparagus and addressing challenges like pests, diseases, and frost ensures healthy plants and consistent yields. Although it requires patience, the effort pays off with a harvest that can last for 20 years or more, preserving gardening traditions and contributing to garden biodiversity. With these tips, you’ll enjoy the distinct taste of heirloom asparagus from your own garden season after season.
FAQ: Heirloom Asparagus Planting Guide
What is the best time to plant heirloom asparagus?
The best time to plant heirloom asparagus is in early spring after the danger of frost has passed. If starting from seed, begin indoors 2-3 months before the last expected frost. For planting crowns, wait until the soil is workable and temperatures are consistently above 50°F.
How long does it take for heirloom asparagus to produce a harvest?
When planting from seed, it typically takes three years before you can start harvesting asparagus. If using crowns, you can expect a small harvest in the second year, with full production starting in the third year.
Can I grow heirloom asparagus in containers?
While it is possible to grow asparagus in large containers, it is not ideal due to the plant’s deep root system and long lifespan. Use a deep container, at least 18-24 inches deep, and be prepared to transplant the asparagus into the ground after a few years.
How often should I water heirloom asparagus?
Asparagus requires consistent moisture, especially during the first year. Water the bed deeply once or twice a week, providing about 1-2 inches of water. In dry periods, increase watering frequency to keep the soil evenly moist.
What type of soil is best for growing heirloom asparagus?
Heirloom asparagus thrives in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5-7.5). Sandy soil enriched with organic matter like compost is ideal, but it can adapt to other soil types if well-prepared.
How can I protect my asparagus from pests?
Common asparagus pests include asparagus beetles, aphids, and slugs. Regular inspection, hand-picking beetles, and using organic sprays like neem oil can help manage infestations. Diatomaceous earth around the plants can deter slugs.
Should I fertilize my asparagus bed, and if so, when?
Yes, fertilize the bed in early spring with a balanced organic fertilizer before the spears emerge. After the harvest, apply another round of fertilizer or compost to support healthy fern growth.
How do I know when my asparagus is ready for harvesting?
Spears are ready to be harvested when they reach about 6-8 inches tall. Use a sharp knife to cut them at ground level. In the first harvesting year, limit the harvest period to a few weeks, then extend it in subsequent years.
Can heirloom asparagus be grown from saved seeds?
Yes, heirloom asparagus is open-pollinated, meaning the seeds can be saved and replanted. Allow a few ferns to mature and produce seeds, then collect and store the seeds for planting the following year.
What should I do with the ferns after the harvest season?
Let the ferns grow throughout the summer and fall to photosynthesize and store energy in the roots for the next season. Once the ferns turn brown in late fall, trim them back to ground level to prevent pests and diseases from overwintering.