Asparagus is a highly sought-after perennial vegetable known for its early appearance in spring and long-term productivity. A well-established asparagus patch can yield fresh spears for 15 to 20 years, making it a significant long-term investment. Success hinges upon proper initial planting and preparation. The longevity of the harvest requires careful attention to the timing and technique of putting the dormant roots, known as crowns, into the ground.
Optimal Timing for Asparagus Planting in Indiana
The best time to plant asparagus crowns in Indiana is in the early spring, typically from late March through April. This window is determined by soil conditions rather than a specific calendar date. Planting should occur as soon as the soil is workable, meaning it is dry enough to be tilled or dug without clumping excessively.
Planting dormant, one-year-old crowns is the preferred method, as it reduces the waiting period for the first harvest by a full year compared to starting from seed. Early spring planting allows the crown’s root system to establish itself before the intense heat of summer arrives. This timing ensures the plant dedicates its first growing season to developing robust root reserves necessary for decades of future production.
Site Selection and Pre-Planting Soil Preparation
Because an asparagus bed can last for two decades or more, selecting a permanent, ideal location is necessary. Asparagus requires at least eight hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal spear production and root development. The location must also offer excellent drainage, as the fleshy roots are highly susceptible to rot in waterlogged conditions.
Asparagus thrives in deep, loose, and fertile soil, ideally with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It is recommended to have the soil tested before planting to determine if lime or other amendments are needed to adjust the pH into this optimal range. The deep root system benefits from incorporating generous amounts of organic matter, such as well-rotted compost or manure, across the entire planting area.
The most important preparation is the complete eradication of perennial weeds from the site before planting begins. Once the crowns are in the ground, aggressive weeds like quackgrass or bindweed become nearly impossible to remove without damaging the delicate crowns. Creating a thoroughly weed-free bed ensures a healthier, more productive patch for many years.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Asparagus Crowns
The planting process begins with digging a trench 10 to 12 inches wide and 8 to 10 inches deep. If multiple rows are planned, space them four to five feet apart to allow room for the tall, mature ferns and for maintenance. This depth is necessary because asparagus crowns tend to “rise” slightly each year as they grow new roots.
Within the trench, form a small mound or ridge of soil down the center, rising about three to four inches high. Place the dormant crowns on top of this ridge, spreading their roots out evenly down the sides. Crowns should be spaced 12 to 18 inches apart to give each plant room to develop a productive root system.
After placing the crowns, cover them initially with only two to three inches of the surrounding soil, ensuring the buds point upward. As the first shoots emerge throughout the season, the remaining soil is gradually pulled into the trench. This gradual filling helps control weeds and encourages deeper rooting.
First Years of Care and the Wait for Harvest
Consistent moisture is important during the first year of establishment, as the new crowns develop their extensive root network. If rainfall is inadequate, provide one to two inches of water per week, especially during dry spells. Weed control remains a priority, and a light layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, helps suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
New asparagus crowns require patience, as the first two growing seasons are dedicated entirely to root development and carbohydrate storage. The most important rule is the “no harvest rule” for the first year, and only a light, two-week harvest is recommended in the second year. Allowing the ferns to grow tall throughout the season enables the plant to photosynthesize and store the energy needed for future spear production.
Harvesting spears too early or too aggressively depletes the crown’s stored energy, permanently weakening the plant and leading to thin, sparse yields in subsequent years. The first full harvest of six to eight weeks should not occur until the third spring after planting. Following this protocol ensures the asparagus patch is strong enough to produce thick, abundant spears for decades.