Asparagus is a delicious and versatile vegetable that can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season. The frequency of harvesting will depend on the stage of the season and the air temperatures.
Early in the season, when the asparagus spears are just starting to emerge, you can typically harvest spears that are around 7 to 9 inches in length. During this stage, it is recommended to harvest every two to four days. This allows the spears to reach a desirable size without becoming too tough or fibrous.
As the air temperatures increase and the asparagus plants continue to grow, the harvesting frequency will need to be increased as well. During the peak of the season, when temperatures are warmer, you may need to harvest once or even twice per day. This is because asparagus spears have a tendency to grow very quickly in warm weather, and you don’t want them to become overgrown and lose their tenderness.
It’s important to note that the harvesting season for asparagus is relatively short. Depending on your climate and growing conditions, you can expect to have approximately 24 harvests per season. After this point, it is recommended to allow the asparagus crowns to fern and grow out.
Allowing the crowns to fern means allowing the asparagus plants to grow tall and develop feathery foliage. This foliage is important for the health and vigor of the plants, as it helps to replenish the energy reserves in the crowns. By allowing the plants to fern, you are essentially allowing them to recharge and prepare for the next growing season.
In my personal experience, I have found that harvesting asparagus can be quite exciting and rewarding. It’s always a thrill to see the spears emerge from the ground and reach their ideal size for harvesting. I have also learned that timing is crucial when it comes to harvesting asparagus. If you wait too long, the spears can become tough and woody, while harvesting too early can result in small and underdeveloped spears.
The number of times you can harvest asparagus will depend on the length of your growing season and the specific climate conditions in your area. By following the recommended harvesting frequencies and allowing the plants to fern at the end of the season, you can ensure a bountiful harvest of delicious asparagus year after year.
