Asparagus is one of the first vegetables to pop up in spring, and knowing when to pick it is the key to enjoying tender, flavorful spears. Harvesting at the right time ensures the stalks are neither too tough nor too thin, giving you the best taste and texture. Let’s go step by step to learn exactly when and how to harvest asparagus properly. Another cool-season crop to look at is when to harvest spinach
How to Know When Asparagus is Ready to Harvest
You’ll know asparagus is ready when the spears reach 6,8 inches tall and are about as thick as your little finger (around ½ inch in diameter). The tips should be tightly closed and firm. If they start to open or look feathery, the spear is past its prime and will be tough.
When NOT to Harvest Asparagus
-
Do not harvest spears that are too thin (smaller than a pencil). These should be left to grow into ferns and feed the plant for next year.
-
Avoid harvesting in the first two years after planting crowns the plants need time to establish strong roots.
-
Never cut all the spears from a young plant; always leave some behind to keep the plant healthy.
Maturity Points for Asparagus Plants
-
Year 1–2: No harvest. Let the plant grow and strengthen.
-
Year 3: Light harvest (2–3 weeks). Pick only a few spears.
-
Year 4 and beyond: Full harvest season (6-8 weeks). Spears will be stronger, thicker, and more plentiful.
Asparagus Harvest Times by Type
| Asparagus Type | Appearance at Maturity | Days to Maturity (from established crowns) | Harvest Season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green Asparagus | Spears 6–8 inches tall, tips tightly closed, bright green | 2–3 years after planting; then 60–75 days each spring | Spring – Early Summer |
| Purple Asparagus | Spears 6–8 inches tall, purple color, tips firm | 2–3 years after planting; then 60–70 days each spring | Spring – Early Summer |
| White Asparagus | Spears 6–8 inches long, harvested before exposure to sunlight (kept white) | 2–3 years after planting; then 60–70 days each spring | Spring – Early Summer |
| Wild/Heirloom Asparagus | Spears slender (5–7 inches), firm tips | 2–3 years after planting; then 55–70 days each spring | Spring – Early Summer |
Best Time of Day to Harvest Asparagus
Morning is the best time to harvest asparagus. The spears are firm, cool, and less likely to wilt. Picking early also helps preserve their sweetness. If you grow warm-season plants, here’s when to harvest tomatillos.
How to Harvest Asparagus Properly
-
Use a sharp knife or garden shears to cut the spear at ground level.
-
Or, gently snap the spear off near the base it will naturally break at the tender point.
-
Be careful not to damage nearby spears that are still growing.
What Happens if You Harvest Too Early or Too Late
-
Too Early: Thin spears won’t be very flavorful, and harvesting too soon can weaken the plant.
-
Too Late: Spears become woody, fibrous, and tough once the tips open up. They lose their sweetness and crisp texture.
How Often to Harvest Asparagus (Indoor vs. Outdoor)
-
Outdoor Plants: Check every day in spring. Spears grow quickly (up to an inch per day), so harvest frequently.
-
Indoor or Greenhouse Plants: Growth is steadier, but still check every 1–2 days to ensure spears don’t over-mature.
Storage Tips After Harvest Asparagus
-
Refrigerate immediately in a glass or jar of water (like flowers) for best freshness.
-
Alternatively, wrap the ends in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag.
-
Asparagus lasts about 3–5 days in the fridge. For long-term storage, blanch and freeze the spears.
Best Practices for Stronger, Tastier Asparagus
-
Mulch the bed to keep soil cool and moist.
-
Fertilize in early spring and again after harvest season ends.
-
Allow ferns to grow after the last harvest this feeds the plant for next year.
-
Keep weeds down, as asparagus hates competition.
Final Words
Harvesting asparagus at the right time makes all the difference between tough, woody spears and tender, delicious ones. Remember: patience pays off with asparagus. Once your plants are mature, they’ll reward you with a reliable spring harvest year after year.
FAQs
Q: How do I know when my asparagus is ready the very first time?
A: Wait until the third year, then harvest spears that are 6–8 inches tall and thick as your finger.
Q: Can I eat thin asparagus spears?
A: Yes, but it’s better to leave very thin spears so the plant can store energy for future harvests.
Q: How long does asparagus season last?
A: Typically 6–8 weeks, depending on your climate and the age of the plant.
Q: Should I cut or snap asparagus?
A: Both methods work, but snapping ensures you only get the tender part.
Q: What happens if I don’t harvest asparagus?
A: The spears will grow into tall ferns, which actually help the plant build strength for next year’s harvest.
