Acclimating Asparagus Before Planting

(From the “How to Grow Asparagus” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Before your asparagus crowns or seedlings ever go into the ground, there’s one crucial step that can give them a strong, stress-free start: acclimation—also known as hardening off. This process gently gets young plants used to life outside the protected environment where they were grown or stored.

At 1st Choice Fertilizer, many of our asparagus seedlings are started in greenhouses, while our crowns are stored in cool, dormant conditions for shipping. Whether you’re planting potted starts or dormant crowns, giving them time to adjust before planting can help reduce transplant stress and improve early growth.

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Why Acclimation Matters

Young asparagus plants—especially potted seedlings with new growth—can be sensitive to outdoor conditions like:

• Temperatures below 50°F

• Direct, intense sunlight

• Sudden frost or cold snaps

• Drying winds

• Rapid changes in humidity

Skipping the acclimation step may lead to leaf burn, wilting, or poor root establishment. Proper acclimation ensures your asparagus settles into the garden with minimal shock.

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Acclimating Dormant Asparagus Crowns

Dormant crowns are the most common way to start asparagus. They’re shipped without soil and appear dry or brittle—but that’s normal. These roots are hardy, but they still benefit from care before planting.

Before planting:

• Soak the crowns in cool water for 1–2 hours (but no longer than 24 hours).

• Keep them cool and shaded until you’re ready to plant—don’t leave them in the sun or let them dry out again.

• Plant promptly, ideally in early spring when soil temps are above 50°F.

Avoid late planting, especially in hot or wet conditions, as this can increase transplant stress or cause root rot.

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Acclimating Potted Asparagus Seedlings

If you’re planting greenhouse-grown asparagus seedlings, they’ll likely arrive with soft, bright green growth. These young shoots need help adjusting to outdoor light, wind, and temperature changes.

How to acclimate them:

1. Unpack immediately and place the containers in a sheltered, shaded spot—such as a covered porch or under a tree.

2. After 1–2 days, begin gradually introducing more sunlight, moving them to a brighter location over several days.

3. Water upon arrival, but allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. This helps toughen the plants for outdoor life.

4. Avoid planting if nighttime temperatures fall near or below 40–45°F—bring them indoors overnight if needed.

5. Watch the foliage. If you see leaf tip browning or drooping, scale back sun exposure and protect from wind.

After 4–7 days of gradual adjustment and once conditions are stable (ideally with soil temps over 50°F), your asparagus seedlings will be ready to transplant. Planting on a cloudy or overcast day is best to reduce shock.

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A Few Extra Tips

• Regional conditions matter: If you’re in a cooler or windier climate, extend the acclimation period by a few extra days.

• Indoor option: If outdoor weather is still too harsh, keep seedlings by a bright, sunny window until temperatures improve.

• Be patient: Each plant reacts differently—some bounce back quickly, while others may need a little extra care.

Taking time to acclimate your asparagus—whether crowns or seedlings—is one of the smartest ways to set up your bed for long-term success. It’s a simple step with lasting benefits, and just one of the many ways 1st Choice Fertilizer supports your journey toward a productive, thriving asparagus patch.

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Would you like this version formatted as a PDF, printable planting guide, or part of a complete “Asparagus Growing Starter Kit”?

Choosing the Right Location to Plant Asparagus

(From the “How to Grow Asparagus” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Success with asparagus starts well before you dig your first trench. Choosing the right location for your asparagus bed can save you time, reduce maintenance, and give your plants the best chance to thrive and produce bountiful harvests for 15 to 20 years or more.

Here are five key things to consider before planting your asparagus:

• Sunlight and soil drainage

• Soil texture and pH

• Surroundings and space

• Permanent placement

• Room for future expansion

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1. Sunlight & Drainage: Set the Stage for Success

Asparagus needs full sun—at least 6 to 8 hours a day during the growing season—to grow strong spears and build healthy root reserves for future years.

Equally critical is excellent soil drainage. Asparagus crowns are prone to rot in soggy soil. Avoid low spots where rainwater collects or where heavy clay holds moisture. If needed, build a raised bed that’s at least 12 inches deep, filled with loose, well-draining soil.

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2. Soil Texture & pH: Know Your Ground

Asparagus prefers loamy or sandy soil—the kind that drains easily yet holds enough moisture for steady growth. You’ll also want to aim for a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.0. Use a soil test to find out where your soil stands, and amend with lime or sulfur if needed.

Need to improve your soil? Mix in compost, aged manure, or our Coco-Fiber Growing Medium to improve both texture and fertility. Well-prepped soil leads to healthier spears and fewer disease problems.

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3. Check the Surroundings: Think Long-Term

Asparagus is a permanent planting—you won’t be moving it season after season. Before planting, ask yourself:

• Will this bed get full sun year-round, or will nearby trees eventually block light?

• Is the site protected from strong wind that could damage tall ferns later in the season?

• Are you planting near invasive roots (like from trees or shrubs) that could compete for nutrients and water?

• Will the bed be easy to weed, mulch, and water over time?

Once asparagus is in, relocating it is difficult and often unsuccessful. Choose a site you’ll be happy with long-term.

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4. Space Wisely: Give Roots Room to Thrive

Each asparagus crown needs plenty of space to spread. Crowding leads to thin spears, increased disease risk, and maintenance headaches. Asparagus roots will expand outward over time, so leave at least 12–18 inches between crowns in rows, and 3–5 feet between rows.

Make sure there’s room to weed between rows and to add mulch and compost as needed each season. Avoid planting too close to fences, foundations, or walkways where future fern growth might become a nuisance.

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5. Plan Ahead: Leave Room to Expand

Starting small is a great idea—but many gardeners find themselves wishing they’d planted more asparagus after the first harvest. If possible, leave space nearby for future beds or additional rows.

You might also want to add companion plants in adjacent areas, like strawberries, onions, or flowers that attract beneficial insects. Planning now for future growth will save effort and create a more organized, productive garden layout.

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Ready to Plant? You’re Almost There.

Choosing the right spot is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when growing asparagus. With thoughtful planning and a little help from 1st Choice Fertilizer, you’re setting the stage for a low-maintenance, high-reward crop that can feed your family year after year.

How to Plant Asparagus the Right Way

(From the “How to Grow Asparagus” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Establishing a productive asparagus bed starts with how—and where—you plant it. While asparagus is low-maintenance once mature, giving it the right start is the key to decades of strong spear production and minimal problems.

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Getting Started: Prep Before You Plant

If you’re planting asparagus crowns (dormant roots), soak them in cool water for 1–2 hours before planting. This rehydrates the roots and prepares them for transplant. Do not soak for more than 24 hours, and avoid letting the crowns freeze or dry out.

If planting potted asparagus seedlings, water the container well upon arrival and allow them to acclimate to outdoor conditions (see our hardening-off guide) before transplanting.

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Step-by-Step Planting Guide

1. Dig a Trench (or Deep Hole for Containers)

For crowns, dig a trench about 6–8 inches deep and 12–18 inches wide. For container-grown plants, dig individual holes deep enough to cover the root ball and allow for some soil settling.

Save your topsoil—it’s the most nutrient-rich part and should be used to backfill the planting trench.

2. Enrich the Soil

Before placing crowns, amend your soil with aged compost, rotted manure, or our Coco-Fiber Growing Medium to improve drainage and nutrient content. Avoid using fresh manure, which can burn tender roots.

If using peat moss, be mindful of its acidity. Coir (coconut fiber) is a more neutral and sustainable alternative, and ideal for asparagus beds.

3. Position the Crowns

Place each asparagus crown in the trench with the roots spread out in a spider-like shape. Cover with 2 inches of soil, keeping the crown just below the surface. As the shoots grow, gradually fill in the trench with more soil over the next several weeks until it’s level with the surrounding ground.

For potted plants, gently loosen the root ball and set them in the soil at the same level they were growing in the pot. Backfill, tamp lightly, and water deeply.

4. Mulch & Protect

Mulch the planting area with 2–3 inches of organic material such as straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips. This helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and buffer temperature fluctuations.

If planting in early spring, mulch also offers some protection against late frosts. In colder zones, consider adding extra mulch in late fall to insulate crowns through the winter.

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After Planting: Water, Mulch, and Be Patient

• Water thoroughly after planting. Keep soil moist—but not soggy—especially in the first year.

• Do not fertilize immediately. Wait until shoots begin to emerge, then use a balanced starter fertilizer like 1st Choice Fertilizer’s Vegetable Bed Boost.

• Top off soil if it settles after watering.

• Pull mulch back slightly from crown centers to prevent rot and ensure emerging spears can break through easily.

• Do not harvest in the first year. Let the plants establish deep roots for a strong foundation.

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Special Planting Tips for Asparagus Beds

• Spacing matters: Crowns should be spaced 12–18 inches apart, with 3–5 feet between rows.

• Raised beds are ideal for heavy clay soils or areas with poor drainage. Use at least 12 inches of loose, fertile soil.

• If you’re planting a multi-year garden, place asparagus in a dedicated bed. Once established, it’s best not to disturb it.

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How to Plant Potted Asparagus

If you received potted asparagus seedlings, follow these steps for a smooth transition:

1. Water immediately upon arrival to keep roots hydrated.

2. If you can’t plant right away, store them in a shaded, protected spot—out of wind and direct sun.

3. Remove the plant from the container gently. Loosen circling roots if needed.

4. Plant at the same depth as in the pot, backfill, tamp gently, and water thoroughly.

5. Stake if needed for tall seedlings to prevent wind damage.

⚠️ Important: Never plant the container itself—plastic pots can restrict root growth and lead to plant failure.

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Final Tip: Label Your Rows

If you’re growing multiple varieties or planting in stages, label your rows clearly. Asparagus looks very similar across types, and having row markers helps with rotation, maintenance, and recordkeeping.

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You’re On Your Way

With thoughtful planting and a little patience, your asparagus is ready to settle in and grow for years to come. And with 1st Choice Fertilizer in your corner, you’ve got everything you need to nourish deep roots and enjoy spring harvests for decades.

How to Prepare Soil for Planting Asparagus

(From the “How to Grow Asparagus” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Before you place a single crown in the ground, soil preparation is the key to a productive, low-maintenance asparagus bed that can last for decades. Healthy soil leads to healthy roots—and healthy roots mean strong spears, fewer weeds, and better yields year after year.

Whether you’re planting in early spring or prepping a bed in the fall, the right soil foundation gives asparagus the long-term success it needs. Here’s how to get it right.

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Why Soil Preparation Matters

Asparagus is a deep-rooted perennial, and once planted, it stays in place for 15–20 years. A properly prepared bed gives the plants the ability to:

• Access nutrients efficiently

• Develop a deep, supportive root system

• Resist rot and disease

• Manage moisture and withstand drought

• Outcompete weeds naturally

We recommend testing your soil before planting and annually thereafter to track pH, organic matter levels, and drainage. Use a 1st Choice Digital Soil Meter for a quick DIY check, or send a soil sample to your local Cooperative Extension for a full lab analysis.

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Understanding Soil Types

Asparagus thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.5–7.0). Knowing your native soil type will help you amend it properly:

Clay or Silt Soils

Heavy, sticky when wet, and prone to compaction. These soils hold water well but can suffocate roots and encourage rot. You’ll need to loosen and lighten clay soil with sand and compost.

Loam Soils

Ideal for asparagus. Loam has good texture, holds moisture without staying soggy, and allows for deep root growth. Even so, topping it off with compost or aged manure will only boost fertility.

Sandy Soils

Fast-draining and low in nutrients. Asparagus can grow here, but you’ll need to add a lot of organic matter to help retain water and feed your plants consistently.

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When to Prepare the Soil

Soil prep should happen well before planting—any time the ground isn’t frozen or overly wet. For spring planting, fall prep gives organic materials time to break down and blend with the native soil. If you’re prepping in spring, do so at least 2–3 weeks before planting to allow the soil to settle.

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What to Add to Your Soil

Asparagus performs best in light, airy soil rich in organic matter. Here are our go-to amendments:

• Compost – Improves soil structure and feeds beneficial microbes.

• Aged Manure – Adds nutrients and organic material to support root development.

• Sand – Helps loosen compacted soils; use with compost to improve texture.

• Coco-Fiber Growing Medium – A peat-free, pH-neutral option that improves both drainage and moisture retention.

• Lime – Use only if your soil test shows low pH (below 6.0).

• Bone Meal or Rock Phosphate – Great sources of slow-release phosphorus, which asparagus loves during establishment.

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Pro Tip: Use What You Have

Don’t overlook the power of grass clippings, shredded leaves, and garden debris—when aged or composted, these make fantastic, free amendments. Start a compost pile in fall so it’s ready by planting time.

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How Organic Matter Helps Different Soils

• In sandy soil: Organic matter helps bind loose particles, improve water retention, and reduce nutrient runoff.

• In clay or silt soil: Organic materials help break up dense particles, boosting drainage and aeration.

• In nutrient-poor soils: Compost restores microbial life and improves root-zone fertility.

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Your Soil, Your Success

Of all the steps in asparagus growing, soil prep is one of the most important. A well-prepared bed sets your plants up for strong growth, healthier spears, and fewer pest or disease issues down the road.

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Ready to move on?
In the next part of our “How to Grow Asparagus” series, we’ll show you how to plant crowns or seedlings step-by-step and protect your bed for a strong first season.

Need help choosing soil amendments?
Explore our full line of organic and asparagus-safe products at www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com.

Fertilizing Asparagus for Healthy Growth and Long-Term Yield

(From the “How to Grow Asparagus” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

Fertilizing asparagus is one of the smartest ways to boost soil fertility, support deep root development, and ensure robust spear production—especially during the plant’s critical establishment years. With the right nutrients, asparagus beds can stay productive for 15–20 years.

But not all soil or asparagus varieties need the same level of input. That’s why soil testing is a crucial first step. Whether you’re planting for the first time or revitalizing an old bed, a soil test ensures you apply the right amount—and the right type—of fertilizer.

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Why Fertilize Asparagus?

Fertilizer isn’t just “plant food.” It’s a tool that helps correct nutrient deficiencies and provides targeted support for:

• Spear production

• Root expansion

• Crown health

• Disease resistance

The key macronutrients in fertilizer are:

• Nitrogen (N): Promotes early shoot development and strong fern growth

• Phosphorus (P): Encourages root and crown development

• Potassium (K): Boosts stress tolerance and improves long-term health

Our 1st Choice Premium Fertilizer blends are specifically designed for edible perennials like asparagus, with balanced N-P-K ratios to match their unique growth cycles.

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Always Test Before You Fertilize

Soil tests prevent you from over-fertilizing, which can damage crowns and encourage weed growth. Use a 1st Choice Digital Soil Meter for a quick reading or submit a sample to your local Cooperative Extension for more detailed analysis.

Once you know your soil’s nutrient profile, you can choose the best fertilizer—whether that’s a granular, slow-release formula for in-ground beds or a liquid booster for fast nutrient delivery during key growth phases.

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Fertilizing Newly Planted Asparagus

In the first year, asparagus needs strong root and crown development—but not too much nitrogen, which can promote excessive top growth at the expense of root structure.

We recommend starting with 1st Choice Asparagus Starter Formula, a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that supports root growth without overstimulating foliage.

Apply at planting, and again 6–8 weeks later. Avoid fertilizing late in the growing season—young asparagus needs time to harden off before winter.

Pest & Disease Control for Asparagus Plants

(From the “How to Grow Asparagus” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

As your asparagus bed matures, it can face persistent threats from pests and diseases. The health of your crop depends on location, climate, and care practices—including weeding, watering, fertilizing, mulching, and sanitation. Choosing disease-resistant varieties and following good cultural management can keep your asparagus vigorous and productive for decades.

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Common Asparagus Pests

Asparagus Beetles (Common & Spotted)

• Description: Small, colorful beetles—blue-black with red or yellow markings.

• Symptoms: Chewed spears and fern tips; eggs laid along stalks and fronds.

• Control:

  • Sprays: GardenTech® Sevin®, Monterey Garden Insect Spray

  • Natural: Neem oil, Safer® Insect Killing Soap, Monterey Horticultural Oil

  • Manual: Handpick beetles and eggs in early morning.

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Cutworms

• Description: Fat caterpillars that live in soil and cut young spears at ground level.

• Symptoms: Wilted or toppled young spears, especially in early spring.

• Control:

  • Sprays: Monterey B.t., GardenTech® Sevin®

  • Natural: Diatomaceous earth around the base, beneficial nematodes

  • Cultural: Keep beds weed-free to disrupt hiding spots.

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Slugs & Snails

• Description: Mollusks that feed at night, especially in damp or mulched beds.

• Symptoms: Ragged spear edges, slime trails.

• Control:

  • Manual: Trap and remove at night

  • Barriers: Copper tape, crushed eggshells, diatomaceous earth

  • Natural: Monterey Sluggo® (iron phosphate bait)

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Aphids

• Description: Tiny, soft-bodied insects that cluster on young fronds.

• Symptoms: Yellowing, curled foliage; sticky honeydew attracts ants and mold.

• Control:

  • Sprays: Monterey Garden Insect Spray

  • Natural: Neem oil, Safer® Insect Killing Soap, Ferti-lome® Triple Action

  • Biological: Encourage ladybugs and lacewings.

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Common Asparagus Diseases

Asparagus Rust

• Cause: Puccinia asparagi fungus, favored by humid weather.

• Symptoms: Reddish-orange spots on stalks and fronds; yellowing or premature dieback.

• Control:

  • Fungicides: Monterey Liquid Copper Fungicide

  • Cultural: Plant in full sun; ensure good air circulation; remove old fronds each fall.

  • Preventive: Space plants properly; avoid overhead watering.

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Fusarium Crown & Root Rot

• Cause: Soil-borne fungus (Fusarium oxysporum)

• Symptoms: Weak, spindly spears; stunted growth; reddish discoloration on roots.

• Control:

  • Prevention: Start with disease-free crowns; rotate beds every 8–10 years.

  • Cultural: Avoid overwatering; ensure well-draining soil.

  • Soil Health: Use 1st Choice Soil Conditioner and compost to boost beneficial microbes.

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Purple Spot

• Cause: Stemphylium vesicarium, a fungal pathogen.

• Symptoms: Small purple lesions on spears and fronds, often from wet spring weather.

• Control:

  • Fungicides: Hi-Yield® Captan, Monterey Fruit Tree Spray Plus (broad-spectrum)

  • Cultural: Avoid excess nitrogen; remove infected fronds in fall.

  • Prevention: Use drip irrigation to keep foliage dry.

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Crown Rot (Various Pathogens)

• Symptoms: Spear tip dieback, soft crown tissue, foul smell in wet conditions.

• Control:

  • Cultural: Improve drainage; avoid planting too deep.

  • Sanitation: Dig and remove infected crowns; solarize soil in summer.

  • Soil Prep: Amend heavy soils with sand and compost prior to planting.

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Best Practices for Pest & Disease Prevention

• Sanitation: Remove and compost old fronds each fall to eliminate overwintering pathogens and pests.

• Mulching: Use clean straw or shredded leaves—not moldy hay. Refresh as needed to suppress weeds and protect spears.

• Crop Rotation: Don’t replant asparagus in the same bed for at least 8–10 years after removal.

• Irrigation: Water at soil level in the morning to reduce humidity.

• Companion Plants: Plant parsley, tomatoes, or basil nearby to deter beetles naturally.

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Extra Tip: Watch Your Spear Health

Discoloration, slowed growth, or off smells are often early signs of trouble. Routine inspection during spring spear harvest and summer fern growth can prevent small problems from becoming major setbacks.

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Need help choosing the right spray or soil product?
Visit www.1stChoiceFertilizer.com for a full line of asparagus-friendly solutions.

Let us help your asparagus thrive from the crown up!

Pruning Asparagus

(From the “How to Grow Asparagus” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

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Why Prune Asparagus?

Survival: Removing old, woody fronds in late fall or early spring reduces disease and pest buildup, helping your crown stay healthy.

Stimulation: Clearing out dead growth allows fresh, vigorous spears to emerge each spring.

Shape & Structure: Maintaining open, well-spaced ferns improves air circulation, sunlight penetration, and overall bed productivity.

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Basic Pruning Principles for Asparagus

• Prune in late fall or early spring after fern dieback but before new spears emerge.

• Remove all brown, yellow, or diseased fronds at ground level to reduce overwintering pests and fungal spores.

• Avoid cutting green foliage during the growing season, as healthy ferns feed the crowns for next year’s growth.

• Use sharp tools to make clean cuts at the soil surface—do not pull or tear fronds.

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How to Prune Your Asparagus Bed

1. Late Fall Cleanup:
   Cut all ferns back to soil level after they have naturally died back and turned brown. This reduces disease pressure and prepares the bed for winter.

2. Early Spring Touch-Up:
   Before spears emerge, inspect the bed and remove any leftover old stems or debris.

3. Remove Weedy Growth:
   Keep the asparagus bed free from competing plants by cutting back weeds and grass regularly.

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Additional Tips

• Use clean, sharp garden shears or pruning scissors to avoid damaging crowns.

• Avoid heavy pruning during active spear harvest—only remove fully brown fronds.

• Regular annual pruning promotes healthy crowns and a higher quality spear harvest.

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Seasonal Pruning Calendar for Asparagus

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Recommended Tools for Asparagus Pruning

• Garden Shears or Scissors: For clean cuts at the base of fronds.

• Loppers: For cutting thicker woody stems in older beds.

• Gloves: Protect hands when cutting tough stems.

• Disinfectant: Use isopropyl alcohol or diluted bleach solution to clean tools and prevent disease spread.

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Pruning Tips: Young vs. Established Asparagus Beds

Young Beds (1-3 years):

• Focus on allowing ferns to grow fully the first couple of seasons to build strong crowns.

• Prune only dead or diseased fronds after natural dieback.

Established Beds (4+ years):

• Cut back all dead ferns in fall or early spring to reduce disease and encourage fresh growth.

• Thin overcrowded areas by digging and dividing crowns every 8–10 years.

• Maintain good bed hygiene to maximize spear yield and quality.

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By following these pruning guidelines, your asparagus will remain vigorous, productive, and ready to provide delicious spears season after season!

Pest and Disease Control for Asparagus: Effective Spraying Guidelines

(From the “How to Grow Asparagus” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

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When growing asparagus, managing pests and diseases early and consistently is key to maintaining healthy, productive beds. Local resources like your county’s Cooperative Extension office, university websites, and experienced gardeners can offer valuable, region-specific advice to identify common threats and select effective treatments.

In areas with multiple asparagus growers nearby, establishing a regular spraying schedule helps prevent outbreaks and supports vigorous spear production. Preventive treatments applied before infestations or infections become severe will save time and reduce crop loss later. Careful and consistent application is essential for best results.

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When to Spray Asparagus

• Dormant Season (Late Fall to Early Spring): After fern dieback but before new spears emerge.

• Growing Season (Early Spring): As spears begin to emerge and ferns start to develop.

• Growing Season (Mid to Late Summer): Target fern pests and diseases before fern dieback.

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Pest Control Sprays for Asparagus

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Disease Control Sprays for Asparagus

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Combination Sprays for Pests & Diseases

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Tips for Effective Spraying

• Always follow label instructions for rates, timing, and safety.

• Spray thoroughly to cover all fern foliage and crowns.

• Avoid spraying during extreme heat, drought stress, or frost risk.

• Only spray after leaves have dried if there was recent rain.

• Test any new spray on a small area before full application.

• Use personal protective equipment like gloves and masks.

• Time sprays to avoid harming beneficial insects; avoid spraying during peak pollinator activity.

• Regular scouting and early treatment prevent severe infestations or infections.

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Keeping a healthy spray routine and monitoring your asparagus bed will help maintain strong, productive plants season after season, ensuring delicious spears for your table!

Watering Asparagus

(From the “How to Grow Asparagus” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

If your asparagus bed is planted in typical garden soil with regular rainfall, you may not need to irrigate heavily beyond natural moisture—especially once established after the first 2 to 3 years. However, young asparagus crowns during their initial seasons do benefit greatly from consistent watering to encourage strong root development and vigorous fern growth.

Using a product like 1st Choice Fertilizer can enhance your watering efforts. This fertilizer not only feeds your asparagus but also helps improve soil structure and moisture retention, keeping the root zone hydrated longer and reducing the frequency of watering.

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Watering Tips for New Asparagus Crowns

In the first growing seasons, aim to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Asparagus prefers deep, thorough watering rather than frequent shallow watering. If your area receives about 1 inch of rain every 7 to 10 days, that usually meets the plants’ needs. If rainfall is insufficient, supplement with a slow, deep watering method—such as a soaker hose or drip irrigation placed near the base of the crowns—to soak the root zone thoroughly.

Avoid light, daily watering that wets only the soil surface, as this encourages shallow roots and weak plants. Instead, water deeply once a week or every 10 days during dry periods. In cooler climates or heavier soils like clay, watering every 2 weeks may be adequate.

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Seasonal and Practical Tips

• During the active growing season (spring through summer), keep soil moist but well-drained to support fern health and spear production.

• Reduce watering gradually in late summer and fall to encourage fern dieback and prepare crowns for dormancy.

• If you build shallow basins or berms around the plants to hold water during the growing season, level or remove them before winter to prevent water pooling and freeze damage to crowns.

• Always observe soil moisture levels—dig down a few inches near the crowns to check dampness and adjust watering accordingly.

• Be mindful of any local watering restrictions during drought or dry seasons and comply with guidelines to conserve water.

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By balancing watering carefully with natural rainfall and soil conditions, you’ll help your asparagus develop deep, resilient roots and produce abundant spears year after year!

Asparagus Harvest and Storage

(From the “How to Grow Asparagus” Series by 1st Choice Fertilizer)

After seasons of nurturing your asparagus bed, the moment you’ve been waiting for finally arrives—harvest time! This is when all your patience and care come together. As you begin cutting your fresh asparagus spears, there are a few key points to keep in mind: knowing when to harvest and how to store your spears to enjoy their peak flavor and quality.

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When Will My Asparagus Bed Start Producing?

With good soil, watering, and care, most asparagus beds begin producing spears in the third year after planting crowns. Production typically improves each year through the fifth or sixth year, when the bed reaches full maturity and vigor. Remember: patience early on leads to a healthy, long-lasting harvest.

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Recognizing Harvest-Ready Asparagus

Spears are ready to harvest when they reach about 6 to 8 inches tall and are roughly pencil-thick (about ½ inch in diameter). The tips should be tightly closed and firm. Harvest by cutting or snapping spears at ground level or just below soil surface.

Avoid harvesting too early or too late: young spears will be thin and sparse, while over-mature spears can become woody and tough. Harvest daily or every other day during peak season, typically from late spring through early summer, to get the best quality.

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Typical Harvest Yield

A well-established asparagus bed can produce around 1 to 2 pounds of spears per 10 feet of row during peak harvest. With good care, your bed can continue producing quality spears for 15 years or more.

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How to Store Fresh Asparagus

To keep your asparagus fresh and crisp after cutting, proper storage is essential:

• Wrap the cut ends in a damp paper towel or place spears upright in a glass with about an inch of water.

• Refrigerate promptly at about 32°F to 40°F.

• Use perforated plastic bags or containers to maintain humidity without trapping excess moisture.

• Fresh asparagus is best used within 2 to 4 days for peak flavor and texture.

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Additional Tips for Enjoying Your Harvest

• Wash spears just before cooking to avoid excess moisture during storage.

• Blanch and freeze surplus spears for long-term storage.

• After harvest season, allow your ferns to grow fully to rebuild root energy and prepare for next year’s crop.

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With proper harvesting and storage, you’ll enjoy the delicious, tender spears of your homegrown asparagus well beyond the growing season!