How To Grow Asparagus In Colorado

Growing asparagus in Colorado is absolutely possible, and this perennial vegetable can thrive here with the right approach.
 
In fact, if you’ve been wondering how to grow asparagus in Colorado, you’re in luck because our state’s climate actually suits this crop quite well.
 
Asparagus is a long-term investment that rewards you with decades of harvests when planted correctly.
 
This guide on how to grow asparagus in Colorado will walk you through everything from choosing the right spot to harvesting your first spears.
 
The key to growing asparagus in Colorado is understanding our unique climate and soil conditions.
 

How to Grow Asparagus in Colorado Successfully

Learning how to grow asparagus in Colorado starts with understanding what this plant needs to thrive in our specific environment.
 
Colorado’s climate presents both challenges and opportunities for growing asparagus.
 
Here’s why asparagus can do well here:

1. Colorado’s Climate Suits Asparagus

Asparagus is a hardy perennial that actually prefers cooler temperatures, which makes growing asparagus in Colorado a smart choice.
 
Our cold winters give asparagus the dormancy period it needs to rest and regenerate.
 
The plant goes dormant after the first hard freeze and returns each spring when soil temperatures warm up.
 
Colorado’s USDA growing zones range from 3a to 7a, and asparagus performs well across most of these zones.
 

2. Choosing the Right Variety Matters

When growing asparagus in Colorado, selecting the right variety gives you the best chance of success.
 
Look for all-male hybrids like ‘Jersey Knight’ or ‘Jersey Giant’ because they produce higher yields.
 
These varieties don’t waste energy producing seeds, so all their energy goes into spear production.
 
‘Purple Passion’ is another excellent choice for Colorado gardens if you want something unique.
 
You can start asparagus from crowns or seeds, but crowns give you a head start since they’re already a year old.
 

3. Site Selection Is Critical

Growing asparagus in Colorado requires picking the perfect permanent spot because these plants stay put for 20 years or more.
 
Choose a location with full sun, meaning at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily.
 
Asparagus needs well-draining soil, so avoid spots where water pools after rain or snowmelt.
 
If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost and sand before planting.
 
Colorado’s alkaline soil is generally fine for asparagus, which tolerates a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
 

Planting Asparagus in Colorado: Step by Step

Planting asparagus in Colorado is best done in early spring, usually March or April depending on your elevation.
 
The soil should be workable but not waterlogged from snowmelt.
 
Here’s how to plant asparagus crowns properly:

1. Prepare the Asparagus Bed

Dig a trench about 12 inches wide and 6 to 8 inches deep for planting asparagus in Colorado.
 
Work in plenty of aged manure or compost at the bottom of the trench.
 
This organic matter feeds the roots and improves drainage over time.
 

2. Set the Crowns Correctly

Space crowns about 12 to 18 inches apart within the row.
 
Fan out the roots gently and set the crown so the bud is pointing upward.
 
Cover with just 2 inches of soil initially, then fill in as shoots emerge.
 
This gradual filling method is key when growing asparagus in Colorado because it prevents the crowns from drying out.
 

3. Water and Mulch

Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
 
Apply a layer of mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
 
Colorado’s dry climate means consistent moisture is essential, especially during the first growing season.
 

Caring for Asparagus in Colorado’s Climate

Proper care is what separates a mediocre asparagus patch from a thriving one when growing asparagus in Colorado.
 
Here’s what your plants need throughout the year:

1. Watering Wisely

Asparagus needs about 1 inch of water per week during the growing season.
 
Colorado’s high altitude means intense sun and quick soil drying, so check moisture regularly.
 
Deep watering encourages deep roots, which makes plants more drought-tolerant.
 

2. Fertilizing for Success

Feed your asparagus in early spring before spears emerge.
 
A balanced fertilizer or compost top-dressing keeps plants productive.
 
Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, which promotes fern growth at the expense of spears.
 

3. Winter Protection

Growing asparagus in Colorado means preparing for cold winters.
 
After the ferns die back in fall, cut them to ground level.
 
Apply a thick layer of mulch to protect crowns from freeze-thaw cycles.
 
This mulch also helps retain soil moisture through winter and into spring.
 

Harvesting Asparagus in Colorado

One of the best parts of growing asparagus in Colorado is harvesting those tender spears each spring.
 
But patience is crucial because you shouldn’t harvest during the first two years.
 
Let the ferns grow and feed the root system during this establishment period.
 
In the third year, you can harvest lightly for about two weeks.
 
By year four and beyond, harvest for six to eight weeks until spears become thin.
 
Snap or cut spears at ground level when they’re 6 to 8 inches tall.
 

 

So, How Do You Grow Asparagus in Colorado?

Growing asparagus in Colorado is absolutely possible when you choose the right varieties, plant them properly, and care for them consistently.
 
The key to how to grow asparagus in Colorado lies in understanding our climate, preparing good soil, and being patient during those first few years.
 
Once established, your asparagus patch will reward you with fresh, tender spears every spring for decades to come.
 
So grab some crowns, pick a sunny spot, and start growing asparagus in Colorado this season.