How Do You Plant Dormant Perennial Asparagus Roots?
Asparagus is a perennial that sprouts from the existing roots each spring. Though you can plant asparagus from seeds, it is time consuming, and you will have to transplant the crowns after one year. So plant dormant asparagus roots in the spring, allowing three years for the crowns to be fully established. Each established crown will produce about a half pound of asparagus per year. You can harvest the sprouts for a few weeks each spring, then the asparagus plants grow to strengthen and develop the root system. Choose a sunny well-drained site. Remove grass and weeds. Check the pH and adjust to 6.5 to 7.5 if needed. Till the soil and mix in 1 lb. of 5-10-5 fertilizer per 100 square feet, along with a thick layer of organic compost. Purchase 1-year-old dormant roots. Plant the roots in the spring, when the soil has warmed to 50 degrees. Dig trenches 6 inches deep and 12 inches wide, leaving 4 feet between the trenches. Sprinkle bone meal in the bottom of the trench at a rate of about 1
