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Groundhogs do like asparagus, and they will happily munch on both the tender spears and the ferny tops if given the chance.
If you’ve ever caught a groundhog wandering near your asparagus patch, you already know these hungry critters aren’t picky eaters.
So if you’ve been asking, “do groundhogs like asparagus?” the short answer is a resounding yes.
In this post, we’ll dig into why groundhogs like asparagus, how they snack on it, and what you can do to protect your precious crop.
Let’s get right into it.
Why Groundhogs Like Asparagus
Groundhogs like asparagus, and there are several reasons why this veggie tops their menu.
1. Asparagus Is Tender and Easy to Chew
Groundhogs are rodents with strong front teeth built for gnawing, but they still prefer soft, juicy plants.
Asparagus spears are crisp yet tender, which makes them an easy, satisfying snack for a groundhog on the move.
Unlike tough woody stems, asparagus goes down quickly, so a groundhog can eat its fill fast.
2. It’s Packed with Water
Fresh asparagus is loaded with moisture, and groundhogs need plenty of water in their diet.
During hot summer months, a patch of asparagus offers both food and hydration in one bite.
That’s a big reason groundhogs like asparagus so much, especially when other water sources dry up.
3. Asparagus Grows in Abundant Patches
Groundhogs are foragers that love an easy meal, and asparagus tends to grow in dense, predictable rows.
Once a groundhog finds your asparagus bed, it will return again and again because the supply is reliable.
This is why so many gardeners find their asparagus stalks nibbled to the ground overnight.
4. The Ferny Tops Are a Bonus Treat
Do groundhogs like asparagus tops too?
Absolutely, and they’ll strip the ferny foliage right down to the stem if you let them.
The bushy tops are soft and nutritious, which makes them just as tempting as the spears themselves.
How Groundhogs Eat Asparagus
When a groundhog likes asparagus, it doesn’t waste any time.
1. They Nibble the Spears First
Groundhogs usually go for the young, tender spears that push up in spring.
They bite them off near the base and chew them down in seconds.
A single groundhog can wipe out an entire row of emerging spears in one morning.
2. They Strip the Leaves and Ferns
After the spears are gone, groundhogs turn their attention to the ferny tops.
They’ll nibble the leaves off the stalks, leaving behind bare stems that look like little sticks.
This damage weakens the plant because the ferns are how asparagus stores energy for next year.
3. They Come Back for More
Once a groundhog discovers your asparagus patch, it will keep coming back as long as food is available.
These creatures have excellent memories and strong territorial habits, so they rarely forget a good meal.
That means if you don’t stop them early, you may lose your harvest season after season.
Do Groundhogs Like Asparagus More Than Other Garden Plants?
Groundhogs like asparagus a lot, but it’s not the only plant on their list.
1. Asparagus Ranks High on Their Menu
Among garden vegetables, asparagus is one of the groundhog’s favorites because it’s tender, juicy, and easy to reach.
It often beats out tougher greens like kale or collards that take more effort to chew.
2. They Also Love Beans, Peas, and Lettuce
Groundhogs are equal opportunity eaters, so they’ll happily snack on beans, peas, lettuce, and broccoli too.
But asparagus still stands out because it appears early in spring when groundhogs are hungriest.
3. Young Shoots Are Irresistible
The youngest, most tender asparagus shoots are the ones groundhogs like best.
These shoots are sweet and low in fiber, which makes them a perfect meal for a hungry rodent.
So if you’re wondering do groundhogs like asparagus shoots, the answer is a very enthusiastic yes.
How to Keep Groundhogs Away from Your Asparagus
Since groundhogs like asparagus so much, you’ll need a solid plan to protect your crop.
1. Build a Sturdy Fence
A buried fence at least two feet deep and three feet high will keep most groundhogs out.
Bend the top of the fence outward so they can’t climb over it.
2. Use Natural Repellents
Some gardeners spray their asparagus with garlic or cayenne-based repellents to make it less appealing.
You’ll need to reapply after rain, but it can help reduce the damage.
3. Trap and Relocate
If a groundhog keeps coming back for your asparagus, a live trap can help you move it somewhere far away.
Just check your local laws first, since some areas don’t allow relocation.
So, Do Groundhogs Like Asparagus?
Groundhogs like asparagus, and they’ll gladly eat both the spears and the ferny tops if you let them.
These rodents are drawn to asparagus because it’s tender, watery, and grows in easy-to-find patches.
If you want to keep your harvest safe, a sturdy fence and a few smart repellents will go a long way.
Hope this post has helped you understand why groundhogs like asparagus and how to keep them out of your garden for good.