How to grow asparagus in a raised bed

Asparagus is the ultimate long-term investment — a permanent bed that takes a couple of years to establish but then delivers gourmet spears every spring for 15 to 20 years. A raised bed's deep, free-draining mix is ideal.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun
• Spacing: 30–40 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 41 cm depth; permanent bed
• Time to harvest: light picking from year 2–3

When to plant: Plant one-year-old crowns in late winter to early spring into a permanent, dedicated bed — it will crop for decades, so choose the spot well. Our free planting calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

Growing it in a raised bed: Plant crowns in a deep trench of rich, free-draining mix and don't harvest the first year or two while they build strength. Let the ferny summer growth feed the crown, and cut it down once it yellows.

Watering and feeding: Keep the bed weed-free and watered through the growing season; feed each spring and autumn.

Common pests: keep an eye out for aphids and slugs and snails. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.

Common diseases: the main ones are rust. Good airflow, morning watering and steady moisture prevent most.

Companion plants: Give asparagus a permanent bed of its own; it resents disturbance. See our companion planting guide.

Harvest and storage: From year two or three, snap or cut spears at ground level for a few weeks each spring, then let the ferns grow to recharge the crown for next year.

More growing guides: rhubarb, globe artichokes and Jerusalem artichokes.

Plan your patch: our free planting calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: Philip Halling, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons.