How To Grow Asparagus

We supply compost block-grown plants that can be put into the ground at any time of year.

Preparation

Asparagus needs well-drained, fertile soil in full sun, and some shelter from winds. On heavier soils asparagus will benefit from being grown in raised beds. Ensure the soil is well dug over and add plenty of compost or well-rotted manure.

Planting Out

Plant out any time of the year, so long as the ground is not frozen. Plant out 9" (23 cm) apart in rows 18" (45 cm) apart, or further apart if you wish. Plant the compost block just below the surface of the soil – do not plant more than 1" (2.5 cm) below the surface as this will delay the speed at which your plants grow. See our video on planting compost block-grown asparagus plants for further details.

Cultivation

Keep plants well watered in dry spells. Keep asparagus beds free of weeds. Mulch to avoid soil compaction and bent spears, and to retain moisture

Pests

Slugs and snails can do damage to young spears. Asparagus beetles will eat strip leaves and outer layers of asparagus stems. Where possible search for and remove adult beetles and larvae by hand. Destroy overwintering beetles by clearing away and burning old stems at the end of the season. Also, treat plants with our BioFriend Plant Defence.

Harvesting

Do not cut at all in the first year and do not be too greedy in the second year either. 

Harvest asparagus when the shoots are about 6" (15 cm) above ground, and while the tip is tightly closed. Cut at ground level, using either a dinner knife with a sharp tip or a special asparagus knife. See our video on harvesting asparagus for further details. Harvesting can continue for 5-6 weeks. Leave about 15% of the shoots to nourish the root system for the following year.

Cut down the dead 'fern' each autumn and then mulch the bed with a thin layer of well-rotted manure or compost.

Forcing

The cutting season can be advanced by up to three weeks by providing protection using cloches.