What To Know
- Asparagus planted in June may not produce spears until the following spring, and you might not see a full harvest until the second year.
- In some regions, June planting can result in a small harvest of spears in the late fall.
- With careful planning, proper care, and a little patience, you can still enjoy the delicious rewards of homegrown asparagus, even if you plant in the later months.
Asparagus, with its delicate spears and earthy flavor, is a beloved spring vegetable. But what if you missed the traditional planting window? Can asparagus be planted in June, or are you out of luck for this year’s harvest? The answer, thankfully, is a bit nuanced. While June planting isn’t ideal, it’s not entirely impossible.
Understanding Asparagus Growth
Asparagus is a perennial vegetable, meaning it lives for several years and produces edible shoots annually. However, it’s a slow grower, taking a couple of years to establish itself before producing a full harvest.
Asparagus crowns, the underground root systems that produce the spears, need time to develop a strong root structure to support future growth. This is why early spring planting is generally recommended, giving the crowns a full season to establish before winter.
The Challenges of June Planting
Planting asparagus in June presents a few challenges:
- Reduced Growing Season: Planting in June significantly shortens the growing season, leaving less time for the crowns to establish before winter.
- Heat Stress: June can be a hot month, especially in certain regions. Asparagus crowns are sensitive to heat, and planting in hot weather can stress them, potentially hindering their growth.
- Moisture Management: Summer months can be dry, and asparagus crowns require consistent moisture to thrive. You’ll need to pay extra attention to watering during the hot summer months.
Can You Plant Asparagus in June?
While June planting isn‘t ideal, it’s not completely out of the question. With careful consideration and proper care, you can still have success. Here’s what you need to know:
Choosing the Right Asparagus Crowns
- Look for High-Quality Crowns: Opt for healthy, vigorous asparagus crowns from a reputable source. Avoid crowns that are damaged or have signs of disease.
- Select a Cool-Season Variety: Some asparagus varieties are better suited for late-season planting. Choose varieties known for their cold hardiness and adaptability.
Site Preparation for June Planting
- Prepare Your Planting Bed in Advance: Get your soil ready weeks before planting. Asparagus prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
- Amend the Soil: Incorporate compost or aged manure to improve soil structure and nutrient content.
- Water Thoroughly: Water the planting bed deeply before planting to ensure the soil is moist.
Planting Techniques for June Success
- Plant Deeply: Plant asparagus crowns 6 to 8 inches deep, with the buds facing upwards.
- Space Them Properly: Space crowns 12 to 18 inches apart in rows, allowing for adequate growth and air circulation.
- Water Immediately After Planting: Give the newly planted crowns a good watering to settle them into the soil.
Post-Planting Care for June Asparagus
- Consistent Watering: Water the asparagus bed regularly, especially during the hot summer months. Aim for 1 inch of water per week.
- Mulching: Apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch, like straw or wood chips, to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize the asparagus bed lightly with a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Weed Control: Keep the planting bed free of weeds, which can compete with asparagus for nutrients and water.
Expecting Results from June Planting
Be prepared for a delayed harvest. Asparagus planted in June may not produce spears until the following spring, and you might not see a full harvest until the second year. However, with proper care, your asparagus plants will establish and reward you with delicious spears for years to come.
The Benefits of June Planting
Despite the challenges, planting asparagus in June can have some advantages:
- Extended Planting Window: June planting allows you to extend the planting season, giving you flexibility even if you miss the traditional spring planting window.
- Potential for Early Fall Harvest: In some regions, June planting can result in a small harvest of spears in the late fall.
- Building Soil Fertility: Asparagus is a nitrogen-fixing plant, meaning it can help improve the fertility of your garden soil over time.
Wrapping Up: Can You Plant Asparagus in June?
While June planting isn‘t ideal, it’s not impossible. With careful planning, proper care, and a little patience, you can still enjoy the delicious rewards of homegrown asparagus, even if you plant in the later months.
Top Questions Asked
Q: How long does it take for asparagus planted in June to produce spears?
A: Asparagus planted in June typically won’t produce spears until the following spring. You might see a small harvest in the late fall, but a full harvest is more likely in the second year.
Q: Can I plant asparagus in July or August?
A: It’s not recommended to plant asparagus in July or August. The hot summer temperatures and shortened growing season make it extremely difficult for the crowns to establish.
Q: What are some good asparagus varieties for late-season planting?
A: Some cool-season varieties well-suited for late-season planting include:
- ‘Jersey Giant’
- ‘Purple Passion’
- ‘Mary Washington’
Q: How do I know if my asparagus crowns are healthy?
A: Look for crowns that are firm, plump, and have healthy, white roots. Avoid crowns that are shriveled, dry, or have signs of disease.
Q: What are the best ways to protect asparagus plants from winter damage?
A: In regions with harsh winters, you can protect your asparagus plants by applying a thick layer of mulch (at least 6 inches) around the base of the plants. You can also use a winter cover, such as burlap or row cover, to protect the plants from cold winds and snow.
