How to Grow Asparagus Guide

Growing Non-GMO Jersey Knight Asparagus Crowns

Start by digging a trench 10-12 inches deep and wide. Add approximately 3 inches of well-rotted manure or compost to support growth in the coming years. Replace some of the removed soil to form a ridge down the trench with the peak at approximately surface level. The crown of the plant should be placed on the ridge and uncovered at the surface level. Cover the roots with about 2-3 inches of soil. Planting is usually done in the spring. Space each crown 12 to 18 inches apart to allow room for growth, and leave 18-24 inches or more between rows. This spacing ensures that the plants do not crowd each other, allowing for easy maintenance and healthy root development. As the shoots begin to grow, gradually continue to fill the remaining trench with soil a few inches at a time until the asparagus is level with the surrounding ground. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the establishment phase.

The most important thing to remember when growing asparagus is patience. Asparagus is a perennial crop that requires at least two to three years of growth before yielding a significant harvest. After planting, focus on weed control, as weeds can compete with young asparagus plants for nutrients and water. Ensure that the soil remains moist, especially during dry periods.

Applying fertilizer during the first few years is essential for vigorous growth. Start with a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy foliage development​. Asparagus plants also benefit from mulch, which helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and gradually adds nutrients as it decomposes. Allow the plants to grow into full ferns without harvesting during the first and second year to allow the plant time to gain energy for significant growth in the 3rd year​.

To blanch Jersey Knight asparagus, begin by mounding soil or mulch around the emerging spears as soon as they start to push through the soil in early spring. Build the mound to cover the spears completely, at least 8-12 inches tall. As the asparagus grows, continue to add more soil or mulch to ensure the spears remain covered. This prevents them from being exposed to sunlight, resulting in white, tender stalks.

Jersey Knight Asparagus Crowns in the Vegetable Garden

Jersey Knight is invaluable in the vegetable garden for its longevity and productivity. Once established, it provides years of harvests with minimal upkeep. Once established, the asparagus plant can produce for up to 15-20 years, providing long-term harvests from a single planting. Asparagus is most often grown as a utility plant as it doesn’t flower. However, it pairs well with other plants that reach their prime in summer and fall because asparagus emerges in the springtime.

Harvesting Jersey Knight Asparagus Crowns

When harvesting asparagus, waiting until the spears reach about 6 to 8 inches in height but before the tips open is best. While some may be ready to harvest in the first year, waiting until the third year gives the plant enough energy to withstand being harvested and still grow larger. The ideal time to harvest is in early spring when the temperatures are cool, as the spears grow rapidly and become bitter in warmer weather. Harvesting can be done by either cutting the spears just below the soil surface using a sharp knife or snapping them off by hand. The typical harvest season lasts for 6-8 weeks each spring​. It is a good idea to leave 30-50% of the stalks unharvested and allow them to leaf out to prepare the plant for next year.

About Jersey Knight Asparagus Crowns

Jersey Knight was bred at Rutgers University as part of a breeding program to develop asparagus varieties with improved disease resistance and yield. Released in the 1980s, it quickly became popular with commercial growers and home gardeners alike due to its ability to thrive in various soil conditions and climates.

Asparagus has been cultivated for thousands of years, valued both for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits.

Asparagus is low in calories but packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Some research also suggests that asparagus has potential medicinal benefits, such as acting as a natural diuretic and helping support healthy digestion.

Jersey Knight Asparagus pairs well with tomatoes, parsley, and basil. Tomatoes help repel asparagus beetles, while parsley and basil act as natural pest deterrents for a variety of insects. Additionally, asparagus roots and tomato plants occupy different soil layers, allowing them to coexist without competing for nutrients. These companions also help attract beneficial pollinators and predators that manage pest populations.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"If your asparagus plants are coming up thinner than the previous year, try not to harvest for a year or two and allow the plant to bulk back up before harvesting again. The stalks should be thicker than a pencil when healthy."

- Lara Wadsworth, True Leaf Market Writer

Jersey Knight Asparagus Crowns Per Package:

• 5 Asparagus Crowns
• 10 Asparagus Crowns
• 25 Asparagus Crowns

Non-GMO Jersey Knight Asparagus Crowns are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.