How to Grow Asparagus from Seed and Care for Transplanted Seedlings
Seed Preparation & Starting:
Soaking: Soak asparagus seeds in warm water for 24 hours to improve germination rates.
Starting Indoors:
Timing: Start seeds indoors 8-10 weeks before the last expected frost (in Colorado Springs, this is typically around mid-April).
Containers & Soil: Use seed starting trays or individual pots filled with a well-draining seed starting mix.
Planting: Plant seeds about ½ inch deep and keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Temperature: Maintain a warm temperature of 70-85°F for optimal germination. Use a heating mat if necessary.
Light: Provide plenty of light once seedlings emerge. A sunny windowsill or grow lights work well.
Transplanting Seedlings:
Timing: Transplant seedlings outdoors once they are 10-12 weeks old and all danger of frost has passed. The soil temperature should be at least 60°F.
Site Preparation:
Location: Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil. Asparagus prefers a slightly acidic soil pH of 6.0-6.8.
Soil Amendment: Incorporate plenty of organic matter like compost into the soil before planting.
Spacing: Plant seedlings 18 inches apart in rows spaced 3-6 feet apart.
Transplanting Process:
Digging the Trench: Dig a trench about 6-8 inches deep and wide enough to accommodate the root system of the seedlings.
Creating Mounds: Create mounds of soil in the trench, spacing them 18 inches apart.
Planting:
Place each seedling on a mound, spreading the roots out gently.
The crown of the plant (where the roots and shoots meet) should be about 2 inches below the soil surface.
Backfill the trench with soil, covering the crowns completely.
Water thoroughly after planting.
Caring for Transplanted Asparagus
Watering:
Regular Watering: Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. The soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Avoid Overwatering: Overwatering can lead to root rot, so make sure the soil has good drainage.
Weeding:
Regular Weeding: Keep the asparagus bed weed-free, as weeds compete for nutrients and water.
Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the plants to suppress weeds and retain moisture.
Fertilizing:
Spring Fertilizing: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, following the package instructions.
Additional Fertilizing: You can also fertilize again in mid-summer after the harvest season.
First Year Care:
No Harvesting: Do not harvest any spears during the first year after transplanting. This allows the plants to establish strong root systems.
Fern Growth: Allow the ferns to grow throughout the summer. They will produce energy for the following year's harvest.
Fall Cleanup: In the fall, cut the ferns back to a few inches above the ground after they have turned brown.
Subsequent Years:
Harvesting: You can begin harvesting spears in the second year, but limit the harvest to a few weeks. In the third year and beyond, you can harvest for a longer period, typically 6-8 weeks.
Ongoing Care: Continue to water, weed, fertilize, and mulch the asparagus bed as needed.
Additional Tips
Patience is key: Asparagus takes a few years to establish and reach full production. Be patient and provide consistent care.
Pest and Disease Control: Monitor for pests and diseases and take action if necessary. Common asparagus pests include asparagus beetles and aphids.
Perennial Crop: Asparagus is a perennial crop that can produce for many years with proper care.
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