Asparagus is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that can be a rewarding addition to your garden. Planting asparagus roots, also known as crowns, is a straightforward process that requires some care and attention to ensure the best possible harvest. Here are 8 easy steps you can follow to plant asparagus roots and enjoy this unique vegetable for years to come.

1. Choose the right variety and soil:

Select a variety of asparagus that is well-suited for your climate. It’s also essential to select a spot in your garden with well-draining, slightly alkaline soil (a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5 is ideal). This will allow the asparagus crowns to establish themselves better in the ground.

2. Prepare the planting area:

Choose a sunny location that receives at least six hours of sunlight each day. Remove any existing weeds or grass from planting area, and then add organic matter like aged manure or compost to create fertile soil.

3. Dig trenches:

Dig trenches about 12 inches wide and 6-8 inches deep, spacing them about four feet apart if you’re planting multiple rows of asparagus. This will give your plants plenty of room to grow without overcrowding them.

4. Create mounds in each trench:

Form small mounds of soil in the bottom of each trench, spaced about 12-18 inches apart. These mounds will support the root systems of your asparagus crowns.

5. Soak crowns before planting:

Before planting your crowns, soak them in water for about an hour, which will help hydrate the roots and encourage successful root growth.

6. Plant the asparagus crowns:

Place each crown on top of one mound with its roots spread out evenly over the mound. Cover the roots with approximately two inches of soil, leaving the bud tips exposed above the soil level. Fill in the trenches as your plants grow, and they will develop a strong root system.

7. Water and fertilize:

Once you have finished planting the crowns, water the soil thoroughly to keep it consistently moist throughout the growing season. Apply an all-purpose fertilizer or aged manure to provide your asparagus plants with necessary nutrients for healthy growth.

8. Maintain the plants and be patient:

Asparagus requires patience, as it can take up to three years for a harvestable crop. Be mindful of common pests like either cutworms or asparagus beetles, and remove them as needed. Keep your planting area weed-free and apply mulch to reduce weeds and retain moisture in the soil.

By following these eight steps, you’ll be on your way to enjoying fresh, homegrown asparagus for many years!