How to grow Asparagus in the UK
Asparagus officinalis
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is a vegetable that grows well in UK gardens. Patience required — no harvest in years 1-2. Then 20+ years of spring spears. Long-term investment. This guide covers when and how to sow Asparagus, the soil and position it likes, watering and feeding, companion planting, and when to harvest.
When to sow & grow Asparagus
Sowing and harvest window through the year (UK):
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr Plant · Harvest | May Harvest | Jun Harvest | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
Soil, position & care
- Soil
- Free-draining; a permanent bed lasts 20 years
- Soil pH
- 6.5–7.5
- Position
- Open, sunny site
- Sowing depth
- Plant crowns 15 cm deep on a ridge
- Spacing
- 30–45 cm apart, rows 45 cm
- Sowing
- Plant dormant crowns in spring into weed-free ground
- Growing
- Do not cut in years 1–2; let ferns build the crown
- Harvest & upkeep
- Cut spears for ~8 weeks from year 3; cut ferns down when yellow in autumn
- Watch for
- Asparagus beetle, slugs
Companion planting for Asparagus
Grows well with:
Keep apart from:
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Asparagus FAQs
What grows well with Asparagus?
Asparagus grows well alongside Basil, Flat-leaf Parsley, Beef Tomato, Cherry Tomato. Good companions can deter pests, attract pollinators or make better use of space.
What should you not plant near Asparagus?
Keep Asparagus away from Garlic, Leek, Onion, Shallot, which can compete with it or share pests and diseases.
How much sun does Asparagus need?
Asparagus prefers full sun (6+ hrs direct).
When is Asparagus ready to harvest?
Asparagus is typically ready to harvest in April, May, June in the UK.
Is Asparagus easy to grow?
Challenging. Patience required — no harvest in years 1-2. Then 20+ years of spring spears. Long-term investment.