How to Grow Asparagus from Seed vs. Crowns: Which Is Best?

Choosing whether to start asparagus from seed or crowns can significantly impact the timing, yield, and long-term productivity of your bed. Both methods have advantages and challenges, and understanding them helps gardeners make informed decisions. With over 30 years of growing asparagus, I’ve experimented with both approaches and can share what works best for different goals.

Table of Contents

Growing from Seed

Pros:

Greater variety selection and opportunity to save seeds.
Can start indoors for an early head start.

Cons:

Slow to establish; harvest typically 3–4 years after planting.
Requires careful indoor care and patience for strong crowns.

Tips for Success:

Sow indoors 8–12 weeks before last frost.
Keep soil consistently moist and provide 12–16 hours of light.
Harden off seedlings before transplanting outdoors.

Growing from Crowns

Pros:

Faster establishment; harvest in 1–2 years.
More predictable yields and stronger initial growth.

Cons:

Limited variety selection compared to seed-grown plants.
Higher upfront cost and less flexibility in sourcing rare types.

Tips for Success:

Choose healthy, one- or two-year-old crowns.
Plant in well-prepared, fertile, well-drained soil.
Space 12–18 inches apart for long-term productivity.

My Experience and Key Takeaways

In my Sonoma Valley garden, crowns are my preferred method for home and market production due to faster harvests and consistent yields. I reserve seed starting for experimenting with unique varieties or expanding my bed gradually. Both methods succeed with proper care, but crowns deliver quicker rewards for most gardeners.

Asparagus Growing Hub

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

Planting & Establishment

How to Grow Asparagus from Seed vs. Crowns: Which Is Best?

Care & Maintenance

Pests & Diseases

Harvest & Storage

Kitchen & Varieties

Stephen Albert

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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