Asparagus

Asparagus may be started from seed, but starting from year-old crowns is recommended.  Set crowns out in the early spring.  Soil type determines planting depth.  A common planting method is to dig a trench 6 to 8 inches wide and about as deep.  Plant at the shallower depth if your soil is heavy.  Incorporate rotted manure or compost in the bottom of the trench before setting the crowns 15 to 18 inches apart in rows 36 to 48 inches apart.  Place the crowns on top of a small amount of loose soil in the bottom of the trench.  Spread the roots out and cover the crowns with 2 to 3 inches of soil.  As the plants begin to grow, pull the soil in around crowns and cover them until the trench is filled. 

Do not harvest asparagus shoots or spears until the second year after the crowns are planted.  This is necessary for the fleshy root system to develop and to store food reserves for growth the following year.  Plants harvested too early after planting
become weak and spindly.  After the third year of growth, harvesting usually can continue for 6 to 8 weeds.  Stop harvesting during the late spring and allow the ferns to grow.  After the first hard winter freeze, cut the plants back to ground level to allow new growth and development of tender spears.

Harvest the spears daily when they are 5 to 7 inches tall.  Cut the spears off below the soil surface.  Harvest in the early morning and use or refrigerate immediately.