Spring Planting Asparagus Crowns

Growing asparagus is a long-term, but incredibly worthwhile investment. Our new range consists of modern tried and tested hybrids, all well suited to our UK climate and with excellent disease resistance. We supply freshly harvested large A grade crowns, larger than those commonly sold.

Asparagus is much easier to plant and to grow than many people think! Years ago it used to be grown in specially prepared raised beds, but today’s modern hybrid varieties perform really well ‘on the level’ and on most well drained soils. Try to pick a sunny position, removing all perennial weeds and as many stones as possible prior to planting.

How to grow Asparagus

Asparagus is the most drought-tolerant of all vegetables, but it does not thrive in waterlogged soils. Reassuringly, it is virtually pest-free. ‘Weed and greed’ are its too main enemies. Root care is particularly important, so weed asparagus by hand rather than with a hoe. Best results are achieved from planting one-year-old crowns, but do not be greedy and cut spears produced in the year after planting. Let the crowns develop a strong root system. The following year, cut for two weeks and from then on it should be in full production for up to eight weeks annually. Harvesting after midsummer shortens the life of crowns. Traditional wisdom tells us cut an inch or two below soil level, but this can cause serious damage. It is much better to cut spears at ground level.

As asparagus is a long-term crop, it is important to choose a good site. The best soil is a deep and well-drained one; coarse, sandy soils will give better results than heavy ones. The soil pH should be 6.5 or above. The incorporation of plenty of well-rotted organic matter is good, especially on lighter soils.