Asparagus is very prolific once established. An area of 20 square feet or a row 50 feet long will supply a family of 5 all year long (assuming you can or freeze your excess harvest). The roots of newly planted asparagus crowns will spread widely, so separate your rows by at least 4 feet. Plant the crowns 18 inches apart and about 8 inches deep, covered with two inches of soil. Add in plenty of organic material to the soil and work thoroughly to a depth of one foot. Keep the soil evenly moist but not wet.

Wait at least one year before harvesting from your new asparagus patch. Keep this first harvest small. Harvesting too early drastically reduces your yield as well as crop quality. To harvest, use a knife to cut the shoots off as close to the ground as possible.

Each year, after the last harvest of the season, allow the spears to fully develop into ferns. Prune or selectively trim to reduce the amount of top growth. Occasional light fertilizing and adequate moisture will help the patch develop sufficient top growth for good spear production.