Sowing seeds

Direct Sowing Asparagus Seeds Outdoors

ByStephen Albert

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Growing asparagus from seed is a rewarding but patient process. While crowns offer a quicker start, starting from seed allows gardeners to select varieties and save plants for decades. After over 30 years of growing asparagus, I’ve successfully started seeds outdoors, and with careful timing and care, you can establish vigorous plants that produce abundant spears.

Step 1: Choose the Right Variety

  • Select Seeds: Look for high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties suited to your climate, such as ‘Jersey Knight’ or ‘Purple Passion.’
  • Timing: Sow seeds in early spring after the last frost for best germination.

Step 2: Prepare the Bed

  • Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil is essential; sandy loam enriched with compost works best.
  • Spacing: Sow seeds 12–18 inches apart in rows 3–4 feet apart to allow room for mature crowns.
  • Depth: Plant seeds ½–1 inch deep and gently cover with soil.

Step 3: Watering and Mulching

  • Moisture: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until seedlings emerge.
  • Mulch: Apply a light layer of straw or shredded leaves to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Step 4: Care for Seedlings

  • Thin Seedlings: Once true leaves appear, thin to one plant every 12–18 inches.
  • Fertilize: Side-dress with compost or balanced fertilizer to encourage strong root development.
  • Patience: Do not harvest spears until plants are at least 3 years old to ensure healthy crowns.

My Experience and Key Takeaways

Direct sowing asparagus seeds requires patience, but the process allows me to grow unique varieties and maintain long-lived, productive beds. Careful soil preparation, consistent moisture, and proper spacing are key to establishing strong plants.

Asparagus Growing Hub

Start here: The Ultimate Asparagus Growing Guide: From Seed to Harvest

Planting & Establishment

Care & Maintenance

Pests & Diseases

Harvest & Storage

Kitchen & Varieties

Stephen Albert is a horticulturist, master gardener, and certified nurseryman who has taught at the University of California for more than 25 years. He holds graduate degrees from the University of California and the University of Iowa. His books include Vegetable Garden Grower’s Guide, Vegetable Garden Almanac & Planner, Tomato Grower’s Answer Book, and Kitchen Garden Grower’s Guide. His Vegetable Garden Grower’s Masterclass is available online. Harvesttotable.com has more than 10 million visitors each year.

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