Knowledgebase

Asparagus starting new spears? August 15,2013 #149065

Asked August 25, 2013, 12:42 AM EDT

I waited 3 years after planting my asparagus crowns to start to harvest. I finished my 2nd spring of harvest this last late June and let all spears grow to replenish. Same as last late summer new spears started to grow last week. Should I pick  these late spears or let them grow till frost any day now, until die off and cleaning off patch? Are these new spears helping or hurting next spring's crop?
Thank You!
David, Bemidji 

Beltrami County Minnesota

Expert Response

It is best to leave the old asparagus ferns until next spring before you chop or mow them.
Pat M MN master gardener and TCA Replied August 25, 2013, 6:54 AM EDT
      Allow the remaining spears to develop into ferns so the plants sugar reserves can be stored in the crown.  Over harvesting will reduce next year’s yield.
Pat M MN master gardener and TCA Replied August 25, 2013, 4:44 PM EDT

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