Can I grow asparagus from store-bought asparagus spears?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Many gardeners wonder if bought asparagus spears can grow. Technically, yes, but it isn't easy. These crowns are the greatest advantages for consistent success. Knowing those differences saves you loads of heartache. Crowns start growing sooner because they have a root system that is already established.
Root System Development
- Crowns arrive with established roots absorbing nutrients immediately
- Spear cuttings lack root structures needing weeks to develop
- Mature roots anchor plants against wind and weather damage
- Established systems access deeper soil moisture reserves
Success Rate Comparison
- Crowns boast 90-95% survival rates when planted properly
- Spear propagation succeeds under 20% in home conditions
- Professional greenhouse conditions barely reach 40% success
- Crowns tolerate beginner mistakes better than delicate cuttings
Disease Resistance
- Certified crowns come disease-free from reputable nurseries
- Store spears may carry fungal spores or pest eggs
- Crown varieties bred for resistance to common pathogens
- Established plants fight infections more effectively
Varietal consistency is critical if you wish to have predictable harvests. Crowns guarantee that you will get specific cultivars such as Jersey Giant or Purple Passion. Store spears originate from unknown sources. They could provide you with low-yielding plants that are not well-suited for your climate. This ambiguity ultimately wastes years of work.
The timing of harvest varies drastically by method. Crowns yield edible spears in two years. Spear-started plants are at least four years old. Patience is tested; many gardeners will discard their first attempt before having any harvest at all. Crowns will provide quicker and gratifying results.
Successful crown planting relies on the appropriate planting practices. Dig twelve inch trenches in prepared soil, and allow roots to spread outward. Gradually cover crowns on an upward growing basis as spears emerge: This will create a firm foundation. Otherwise, storing spears gives little guidance for planting.
Choose high-quality crowns from reputable nurseries. Crowns should feel firm to the touch, and roots should be mostly white. Do not buy dried-out or moldy crowns. Plant crowns in early spring. Following this process will provide you with many decades of dependable asparagus harvests.
Read the full article: How to Grow Asparagus from Crowns Successfully
