Choose a sunny location with well-drained soil
Remove weeds, rocks, and debris from the planting area
Test the soil and adjust pH to about 6.5 to 7.0 if needed
Work in compost or well-rotted manure before planting
Dig trenches about 6 to 8 inches deep and 12 to 18 inches wide
Space trenches about 3 to 4 feet apart
Create small mounds or ridges in the bottom of each trench
Place asparagus crowns on the mounds with roots spread evenly
Space crowns 12 to 18 inches apart
Cover the crowns with 2 inches of soil
Water thoroughly after planting
Add more soil gradually as shoots grow until the trench is filled in
Keep the bed evenly moist during the first growing season
Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds
Avoid harvesting spears during the first year
Harvest lightly in the second year and fully after the third year
Remove dead fern growth in late fall or early spring
Fertilize in early spring and after harvest if needed