What To Know
- The ideal time to plant asparagus crowns is in the fall, giving them a chance to establish themselves before winter.
- You’ll need to sow the seeds indoors in the late winter or early spring and then transplant the seedlings to your garden in the spring.
- You can expect to harvest a few spears in the second or third year after planting, but the full harvest will come in the following years.
Asparagus, the spring delicacy with its delicate stalks and earthy flavor, is a coveted addition to any garden. But what if you could grow your own asparagus without starting from seed? Many gardeners wonder, “Can I plant asparagus from the grocery store?” The answer, while tempting, is a bit more complex than a simple yes or no.
The Allure of Grocery Store Asparagus
The idea of planting asparagus from the store is appealing. After all, it’s readily available, and you already know it’s a healthy, vigorous plant. But there are several factors to consider before you grab a bunch of asparagus and head to your garden.
The Challenges of Planting Store-Bought Asparagus
The main hurdle is that asparagus crowns, the underground portion where the shoots emerge, are rarely sold in grocery stores. You’re likely getting the edible spears, which are the tips of the shoots, not the actual root system needed for planting.
The Problem of Dormant Crowns
Even if you could find asparagus crowns at the store, they’re often dormant during the growing season. This means they won’t sprout new shoots unless they’re planted in the right conditions. The ideal time to plant asparagus crowns is in the fall, giving them a chance to establish themselves before winter.
The Risk of Disease
Another concern is the potential for disease. Grocery store asparagus is often treated with pesticides and fungicides to ensure it’s fresh and appealing. While these treatments are generally safe for consumption, they can introduce unwanted pathogens into your garden, potentially affecting your existing plants.
Alternatives to Grocery Store Asparagus
If your heart is set on homegrown asparagus, there are better alternatives to store-bought spears.
1. Purchasing Asparagus Crowns
The most reliable way to get started with asparagus is to purchase crowns from a reputable garden center or online retailer. These crowns are specifically bred for planting and will have a higher chance of success.
2. Starting Asparagus From Seed
While it takes a bit longer, starting asparagus from seed can be a rewarding experience. You’ll need to sow the seeds indoors in the late winter or early spring and then transplant the seedlings to your garden in the spring.
The Exception: Asparagus Fern
There’s one exception to the rule: Asparagus fern, a popular houseplant, can be propagated from cuttings. If you have an asparagus fern, you can simply snip a few stems and root them in water or soil. However, this method won’t produce the edible spears you’re likely after.
Asparagus: A Long-Term Commitment
Asparagus is a perennial plant, meaning it lives for many years. Once established, it can provide you with delicious spears for decades. However, it takes a few years for asparagus plants to reach maturity and produce a significant harvest.
Time to Harvest: Patience is Key
Don’t expect to be harvesting asparagus from your newly planted crowns right away. Asparagus plants need time to establish their root system and build up their energy reserves. You can expect to harvest a few spears in the second or third year after planting, but the full harvest will come in the following years.
The Final Verdict
While the idea of planting asparagus from the grocery store is tempting, it’s not a practical or reliable method. The best way to ensure success is to purchase asparagus crowns from a reputable source or start them from seed. With patience and proper care, you can enjoy fresh, homegrown asparagus for years to come.
Beyond the Garden: Enjoying Your Harvest
Once your asparagus plants are producing, you’ll have a bountiful supply of this delicious spring vegetable. There are countless ways to enjoy asparagus, from simple roasted spears to gourmet dishes.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Can I plant asparagus from the store if it’s organic?
Organic asparagus is less likely to be treated with pesticides and fungicides, but it’s still unlikely to have the dormant crowns needed for planting.
2. How long does it take for asparagus to grow from seed?
It takes about two years for asparagus plants grown from seed to reach maturity and produce a full harvest.
3. What are the best conditions for growing asparagus?
Asparagus thrives in well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. It prefers full sun to partial shade.
4. What are the common pests and diseases that affect asparagus?
Asparagus can be susceptible to pests like asparagus beetles and diseases like rust.
5. How do I harvest asparagus?
Harvest asparagus spears when they’re about 6 to 8 inches tall and still tightly closed at the tip. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the spears just below the soil level.
