Asparagus Crowns for Sale: A Complete Guide to Planting, Varieties, and Growing Success

1. Introduction

When it comes to perennial vegetables, few crops are as rewarding as asparagus. Known for its tender spears, high nutritional value, and impressive longevity, asparagus can provide harvests for 15–20 years once established. Unlike many vegetables grown from seed each year, asparagus is often planted from crowns—the root systems of 1-, 2-, or 3-year-old plants.

If you’ve searched for “asparagus crowns for sale” or “asparagus crowns near me,” you’re likely looking for a head start in your garden. This blog will explore everything you need to know: where to buy asparagus crowns, how to plant them, the differences between 2- and 3-year-old crowns, and the best varieties like Jersey Giant asparagus crowns.

2. What Are Asparagus Crowns?

An asparagus crown is the established root system of an asparagus plant, grown for 1–3 years before being dug up and sold.

• 1-Year-Old Crowns: Affordable, but require patience (2–3 years before full harvest).
• 2-Year-Old Crowns: A good balance of cost and time savings.
• 3-Year-Old Crowns: More expensive but can provide quicker harvests.

Buying crowns allows gardeners to skip the lengthy germination and early growth stages associated with asparagus seeds.

3. Why Buy Asparagus Crowns Instead of Seeds?

While asparagus seeds are available, most gardeners prefer crowns because:

• Faster Harvest: Seeds can take up to 4 years before a decent harvest; crowns shorten this to 2–3 years.
• Higher Success Rate: Established crowns adapt better to soil than fragile seedlings.
• Stronger Plants: Crowns have stored energy, making them more resilient.

4. Asparagus Varieties to Consider

4.1 Jersey Giant Asparagus Crowns

• One of the most popular choices in the United States.
• Known for thick, high-yielding spears.
• Resistant to common asparagus diseases.

4.2 Jersey Knight Asparagus

• Cold-hardy, great for northern climates.
• Produces tender, flavorful spears.

4.3 Purple Passion Asparagus

• Unique purple color, sweeter flavor.
• Ideal for fresh eating and gourmet cooking.

4.4 Mary Washington Asparagus

• An heirloom variety, widely adapted.
• Affordable and reliable for beginners.

5. Where to Find Asparagus Crowns for Sale

5.1 Online Nurseries

• Jersey Giant asparagus crowns for sale are common at specialized online nurseries.
• Benefits: wider selection, shipped fresh, access to 2- or 3-year-old crowns.

5.2 Local Garden Centers

• Search for “asparagus crowns for sale near me.”
• Advantage: you can inspect crowns for quality before purchase.

5.3 Farmers’ Markets

• Some local farmers sell crowns during early spring.
• Great for supporting local agriculture.

6. How Many Asparagus Crowns Do You Need?

• Family of 2: Plant 10–15 crowns.
• Family of 4: Plant 25–30 crowns.
• Large Garden: 40+ crowns for a continuous supply.

Remember: asparagus is perennial, so it’s an investment that lasts decades.

7. How to Plant Asparagus Crowns

Step 1: Site Selection

• Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
• Avoid areas prone to waterlogging.

Step 2: Prepare Soil

• Enrich with compost or aged manure.
• Ensure soil pH is between 6.5–7.5.

Step 3: Digging Trenches

• Dig trenches 8–10 inches deep and 12–18 inches apart.
• Place crowns buds facing up, roots spread out like a star.

Step 4: Covering and Watering

• Cover with 2 inches of soil, gradually filling as shoots grow.
• Water regularly, but avoid over-saturation.

Step 5: Mulching

• Apply organic mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

8. Caring for Asparagus Crowns

• Watering: Consistent moisture during the first two years.
• Weeding: Keep beds clean to reduce competition.
• Fertilizing: Apply balanced fertilizer in spring.
• Cutting Back: After frost, cut ferns to ground level.

9. Harvest Timeline

• Year 1: Do not harvest—let the crowns establish.
• Year 2: Light harvest (1–2 weeks).
• Year 3+: Full harvest (6–8 weeks each spring).

With proper care, a bed of asparagus can remain productive for 15–20 years.

10. 2-Year vs. 3-Year-Old Crowns

• 2-Year-Old Asparagus Crowns for Sale: Affordable and commonly available; they’ll produce modest harvests sooner.
• 3-Year-Old Asparagus Crowns for Sale: Quicker harvests, but costlier and harder to find.

Tip: Many experts recommend 2-year crowns as the best balance between price and productivity.

11. Common Problems & Solutions

• Asparagus Beetles: Control with neem oil or manual removal.
• Rust or Fusarium Wilt: Choose resistant varieties like Jersey Giant.
• Weeds: Mulch heavily and hand-weed regularly.

12. Companion Planting for Asparagus

Good companions:

• Tomatoes (repel asparagus beetles).
• Parsley & Basil (enhance growth).
• Marigolds (natural pest deterrent).

Avoid planting asparagus with:

• Garlic and onions (can stunt growth).

13. FAQs About Asparagus Crowns

Q1: When is the best time to plant asparagus crowns?
A: Early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked.

Q2: How long do asparagus crowns last?
A: 15–20 years with proper care.

Q3: Should I buy 2- or 3-year-old asparagus crowns?
A: 2-year crowns are more economical and widely recommended.

Q4: Where can I buy Jersey Giant asparagus crowns for sale?
A: Online nurseries, garden centers, or specialty seed catalogs.

Q5: Can I grow asparagus in containers?
A: Yes, but large, deep containers are required. Yields are smaller than in-ground beds.

14. Conclusion

Investing in asparagus crowns for sale is one of the best long-term decisions you can make for your garden. By choosing the right variety—whether Jersey Giant, Purple Passion, or Mary Washington—and starting with healthy crowns, you’ll establish a bed that can feed your family for decades.

Whether you choose 2-year-old crowns for affordability or 3-year-old crowns for faster results, asparagus rewards patience with bountiful harvests year after year.

So, if you’re searching for “asparagus crowns for sale near me,” now is the time to prepare your garden beds and make this perennial investment in your food future.

References (10 Domains)

1. almanac.com – Asparagus Growing Guide
2. gardeners.com – Gardening Supplies & Advice
3. rhs.org.uk – Royal Horticultural Society
4. extension.umn.edu – University of Minnesota Extension
5. extension.psu.edu – Penn State Extension
6. gardeningknowhow.com – Asparagus Care
7. thespruce.com – Gardening Tips
8. bonnieplants.com – Vegetable Planting Guides
9. rareseeds.com – Seed & Crown Supplier
10. gurneys.com – Asparagus Crowns for Sale