Planting Asparagus

Growing asparagus is a big time commitment, and should be started from "crowns", which are one-year-old plants. Dig a trench at least 30cm (12") wide and 20cm (8") deep, with 1m (40") between trenches. Briefly soak the crowns in warm water, then place them in the trench with 45cm (18") between the head of each crown. Fill the trench with 5cm (2") of soil, being sure not to compact it too much. Asparagus prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter, and will require full sun.

Growing Asparagus

As asparagus grows 5cm (2") above the soil, fill with more soil to leave the growth just visible, and repeat this process until the trench is filled. Once it is, make a small mound along the middle the of trench to prevent water pooling, and cover with 10cm (4") of mulch. Water consistently, keeping the soil moist but not wet, as asparagus roots don't like being soaked. Asparagus is a heavy feeder and should be fertilised monthly with a balanced fertiliser. For the first two years after planting, allow the asparagus to mature without harvest to establish strong roots, and trim the foliage once it dies back. After each season's harvest concludes, allow any remaining spears to fully mature and follow the same process.

Harvesting Asparagus

Asparagus should not be harvested the first year after planting, and shouldn't be harvested during the second year either unless the plants were especially strong the previous season. Harvest asparagus spears once they reach roughly 20cm (8") in length and 1cm (1/2") thick by cutting them at ground level. If the spear begins to open and develop foliage, it will be too tough for eating but should still be harvest to encourage more spear growth. Once new spears are the width of a pencil, stop harvesting for the season.

Asparagus should be stored in the refrigerator after brushing off any soil, rinsing with water, drying fully, and bundling spears together.