How to grow Asparagus in Australia
Plant asparagus crowns in full sun in deep, rich, free-draining soil cleared of all perennial weeds, as this bed lasts many years. Keep it watered in dry spells and feed generously each season.
At a glance
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Sun: Full sun
- Water: 6 litres a week, watered every 3 days
- Spacing: 40 cm
- Time to harvest: 730 days (about 2 years)
- Time to germinate: 21 days
- Soil pH: 6.5 to 7.5
- Frost tolerance: Frost hardy
When to sow by region
| Region | When to sow | Regional note |
|---|---|---|
| South East Queensland | July to September | |
| Northern Rivers NSW | July to September | Hinterland areas get enough chill. Coastal zones marginal. |
| Sydney & Coastal NSW | July to September | Good winter chill in western suburbs. Reliable long-term crop. |
| Melbourne & Victoria | July to September | Excellent winter chill. Melbourne is ideal asparagus country. One of the best crops to grow here. |
| Adelaide & SA | July to September | Good winter chill. Reliable long-term crop for Adelaide gardens. |
| Perth & WA | July to September | Moderate chill. Reliable in Perth gardens. |
| Tasmania | August to October | Plant crowns Aug to Oct. Deep winter chill makes Tasmania prime asparagus country. Beds produce for 20 years. |
| Canberra & ACT | July to September | Excellent chill. Reliable long-term crop for Canberra gardens. |
| North Queensland | Not suited | Not enough winter chill. Not viable in tropical North QLD. |
| Darwin & Top End | Not suited | Not viable. Zero winter chill. |
Varieties
- Mary Washington
- UC 157 F1
- Purple Pacific
Companion planting
Good companions
Avoid planting near
Harvest and storage
Harvest tip
Cut spears when they reach 15 to 20cm with tight closed tips, before they fern out. Snap or cut at ground level and the crown keeps sending up more for weeks.
Storage
Fridge standing upright in damp paper towel for 3 to 4 days. Best eaten fresh.