Asparagus can be one of the most rewarding vegetables that you could propagate over and over again. One of the more ideal methods of propagating asparagus with succession is using the root crowns of the plant. Although you can technically propagate asparagus through plant division, it should grow just fine that way as well. However, asparagus is a plant that requires patience and time to get the best results of the spears when you’re ready to harvest.
Growing asparagus
Regardless of the method, you decide to go with, be sure that you have the necessities to propagate your asparagus. Your plants must have well-draining soil with a pretty moderate pH. If you have any compost or other soil enrichments, may help the growth of your asparagus after propagating.
You can harvest the spears until they become small and spindly. Once autumn rolls around again, let your asparagus fern out and cut them as they die back near the end of the season. This is so that the asparagus can get the necessary energy to grow spears in the spring.
Growing Asparagus From Seed
You’ll know when asparagus is ready to seed when they start producing red berries. These berries contain asparagus seeds that you can easily harvest off the older spears. This only occurs when asparagus is allowed to fern at the end of its season and if they haven’t been exposed to freezing temperatures yet.
You can grow asparagus from seed, however, this can take longer for the desired spears you’re looking for. It takes about one full year before asparagus will be able to grow any stems. If you’re starting from seed, this can actually take an extra year before the asparagus is ready. It’s not impossible, but this method can take a very long time for your asparagus to develop.
Propagating Asparagus Through Crown Division
Dividing the root crown of an asparagus plant is the more common method of propagating the plant. You can do this with asparagus that’s about several years old and has slowed down its spear production. Ideally, wait until the end of Fall to dig up the root after the ferns have died back. You can split the root crown into several pieces, making sure that each piece has a good chunk of root still. You can replant the root crowns now or wait until the last frost in early spring.
Be sure that you place the asparagus roots into a paper/mesh bag and fill it with sawdust if you decide to wait until spring. Be sure to give your new propagated asparagus plants about another year before they start producing spears again. Additionally, your asparagus will spread over time and will be less productive. Split up the root crown every three years or so for year-round spear harvesting.
