Plant Profile

AsparagusAsparagus

Asparagus is a perennial stem vegetable. It needs deep, humus-rich soil and a sunny location.

Vegetables Stalk vegetables Asparagus family

Calendar

Asparagus: plant portrait. harvest: April - June.

Quick profile

Key data

Growing calendar

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Direct sowing outdoors

Planting outdoors

Harvest

Pruning

Direct sowing outdoorsPlanting outdoorsHarvestPruning

Suitable growing locations:

Outdoor garden bed Raised bed

Good neighbors

tomato parsley

Avoid

potato Onion

Indoor & direct sowing

Asparagus: Sowing and germination

Indoor sowing

Asparagus is generally not started indoors.

Direct sowing outdoors

Direct sowing is possible, but germination can be slow and uneven. Sow in rows about 30-40 cm apart.

Seed depth2 - 3 cm

Germination temp15 - 20 °C

Germination time14 - 21 days

Light germinatorNo

Dark germinatorYes

Cold germinatorNo

Stratification neededNo

Pre-soaking recommendedNo

Planting & site

Asparagus: Planting and spacing

Planting outdoors

Young plants or divided rootstocks are planted out in spring after the last frosts.

Plant spacing30 - 40 cm

Row spacing100 - 150 cm

Plants per m²3 - 5 per m²

Bed widthfrom 100 cm

Temperature & frost

Asparagus: Temperature and site

Growing temperaturefrom 10 °C

Optimal temperature18 - 25 °C

Max. heatup to 30 °C

Soil temperature10 - 15 °C

Frost sensitiveNo

Late frost sensitiveNo

Heat tolerancemedium

Cold tolerancehigh

Water & nutrients

Asparagus: Water, nutrients and care

Watermedium

Critical water phasesGermination, Growth of young shoots, Development of green fronds

Watering methodDrip irrigation

Droughtmedium

Waterlogging sensitiveYes

Mulching recommendedYes

Nutrient needheavy feeder

Compost recommendedYes

Fertilizer sensitivitylow

Container & growth

Asparagus: Container, support and growth

Container suitableNo

SupportNo

Height150 - 200 cm

Width50 - 75 cm

Root depth100 - 200 cm

Year plan

Asparagus Calendar

Plants

Asparagus season starts in April and ends by St. John's Day, June 24th.

Year overview

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Direct sowing outdoors

Planting outdoors

Harvest

Pruning

Recurring tasks

Prepare planting holesMarch - April

soil workable: Planting trench approx. 30-40 cm deep, fill with compost and well-rotted manure.

Sow seeds (direct sow)March - May

soil temperature suitable: Sowing depth approx. 2-3 cm, spacing 30-40 cm in rows.

Apply mulchApril - May

after planting: Use organic mulch materials like straw or compost.

Continue harvestingApril - June

spears emerge: Harvest spears when they are approx. 15-20 cm tall.

First harvest (if established)April - June

plant established, 2-3 years old: Harvest only a few spears to avoid weakening the plant.

HarvestApril - June

Harvest time is typically from April to June. No harvest in the first year after planting to allow the plant to establish. Harvesting can begin in...

Plant out young plants/rootstocksApril - May

after last frost: Plant rootstocks approx. 15-20 cm deep.

WeedApril - September

weeds present: Do not damage the roots.

Water regularlyMay - August

dry weather: Water deeply to encourage root growth.

Allow green shoots to grow and fertilizeJune - July

after harvest: This strengthens the roots for the next season.

Fertilize after harvestJune - July

after harvest: Use organic fertilizer or compost.

Water and fertilize as neededJuly - August

dry weather or nutrient deficiency: Consistent moisture is important for the growth of green shoots.

Weed controlJuly - September

weeds present: Weeds compete for water and nutrients.

Allow green shoots to growAugust - September

post-harvest: These shoots build up energy for next year's spears. · post-harvest - Plants are storing energy for the next season.

Cut back dead foliage to prevent fungal diseasesSeptember - October

Fronds are cut only when fully yellowed and dead, usually from September onwards.

Cut back foliage (if yellowing)September - October

foliage yellowing: Removes potential pathogens and improves air circulation.

Apply winter mulch layerOctober - November

approaching frost: Protects the roots from severe frost.

Renew mulch layerOctober - November

late autumn: Ensures roots are well protected.

Relevant now

June

End harvestmid-June: Harvest should not extend beyond St. John's Day (June 24th).

Next up

July

Allow green shoots to growpost-harvest: These shoots build up energy for next year's spears.

Monthly tasks

Single tasks from monthly data; repeated seasonal windows are shown in the overview above.

HarvestGrowing

January

Quiet month

February

Quiet month

March

Prepare soil and incorporate compost

Growing

Prepare soil and incorporate compostsoil workable: Asparagus requires nutrient-rich soil.

April

No additional single task

May

No additional single task

June

End harvest

Harvest

End harvestmid-June: Harvest should not extend beyond St. John's Day (June 24th).

July

Allow green shoots to grow

Growing

Allow green shoots to growpost-harvest: These shoots build up energy for next year's spears.

August

Quiet month

September

Quiet month

October

Soil care and compost application

Growing

Soil care and compost applicationlate autumn: Improves soil structure and nutrient supply for the coming spring.

November

Quiet month

December

Quiet month

Flowering & pollination

Asparagus Flowering & pollination

Self-fertility

self-incompatible

Pollinator needed

yes

Overview

Asparagus is dioecious – male and female flowers are on separate plants. Pollination is mainly by insects such as bees and bumblebees. Male plants are considered more productive and are preferred in cultivation.

Notes

Since female plants produce seeds and berries, they invest less energy in spear production. For seed production, both male and female plants need to be present.

Pruning & care

Asparagus Pruning & care

Pruning type

kein Schnittsystem

Pruning timing

Herbst

Cut back dead foliage to prevent fungal diseases Fronds are cut only when fully yellowed and dead, usually from September onwards.

Remove

Preserve

Healthy green fronds during the growing season for assimilation

Avoid

Cutting healthy green fronds during the growing season

Tools and hygiene

Clean cutting tools before and after use to prevent transmission of fungal diseases (e.g., Fusarium). Disinfect with alcohol or household bleach.

Companion guide

Asparagus Companion guide

Companion guide

Good neighbors

tomato parsley

Avoid

potato Onion

Use & storage

Asparagus Use & storage

Harvest

Harvest time is typically from April to June. No harvest in the first year after planting to allow the plant to establish. Harvesting can begin in the second or third year.

Storage

Short-term storage (fresh) and preserved (frozen/pickled)

Storage life

Fresh: 2–3 days in the refrigerator; blanched frozen: 8–12 months; pickled: up to 1 year.

Flavor

mild, delicately nutty to slightly bitter

Harvest

Harvest time is typically from April to June. No harvest in the first year after planting to allow the plant to establish. Harvesting can begin in the second or third year.

Processing

After harvest

Store spears immediately after harvest in a cool, damp place, preferably wrapped in a damp cloth. Trim the ends freshly before storage. Asparagus is high in sugar and loses aroma and tenderness quickly – ideally consume on the day of harvest.

Notes

Fresh asparagus should not be stored too long as it quickly becomes woody and loses flavor. Always blanch before freezing to preserve quality.

Edibility & safety

Asparagus Edibility & safety

For people

In brief: which parts are edible, which parts remain risky, and whether raw consumption makes sense.

Edible parts:Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Caution parts:Woody ends of spears, Berries (poisonous), Mature fronds

Raw consumption:Green asparagus can be eaten raw, e.g., in salads. White asparagus is only eaten cooked due to its fibrous texture. People with sensitive stomachs should avoid raw asparagus.

Safety notes

The red berries of asparagus contain saponins and other compounds that are toxic to humans and pets (dogs, cats). Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal upset.

Animal safety

For animals, the specific plant part matters here: some parts may be suitable, while others should be avoided. At least one critical rating is listed for 2 animal types.

Animal safety by plant part

Each row shows which parts are more suitable and which parts are critical.

Companion animals

Dog

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of young shoots

Symptoms

Vomiting, Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal upset

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Young asparagus spears are suitable for dogs in small amounts as a treat. Berries and mature plant parts contain saponins and can cause gastrointestinal upset. Woody ends are difficult to digest and should be avoided.

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Cat

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of young shoots

Symptoms

Vomiting, Diarrhea, Gastrointestinal upset

observe

Young asparagus spears are safe for cats in small amounts as an occasional treat. Berries and mature plant parts contain saponins and can cause gastrointestinal upset. Consult a veterinarian if large amounts or unknown plant parts are ingested.

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Rabbit

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of young shoots

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

The young shoots of asparagus are generally safe for rabbits in small amounts and can be given as a treat. The red berries as well as woody ends and mature fronds contain saponins and are toxic. Ingestion of toxic parts may cause gastrointestinal upset. Only feed the young, tender shoots and in moderation.

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Guinea pig

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of young shoots

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

The young shoots (asparagus spears) are suitable for guinea pigs in small amounts as a treat. The red berries as well as woody ends and mature fronds contain saponins and are toxic or difficult to digest. Ingestion of toxic parts may cause gastrointestinal upset. Only feed the young, tender shoots and in moderation. Not suitable as a main feed. Consult a veterinarian if uncertain or if symptoms occur.

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Hamster

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of young shoots

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

Young asparagus spears are suitable for hamsters in small amounts as a treat. Berries and mature plant parts contain saponins and are toxic. If toxic parts are ingested, observe for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist.

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Budgie

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of edible parts

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

The young shoots (asparagus spears) are safe for budgies in small amounts, but the red berries as well as woody ends and mature fronds contain saponins that can cause gastrointestinal upset. Budgies should only receive the tender tips and never have access to berries.

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Farm animals

Horse

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of shoots

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

The young shoots (spears) are suitable for horses in moderation and are occasionally fed as a treat. The red berries as well as woody ends and mature fronds contain saponins and can cause gastrointestinal upset. Feeding should be limited to the young, tender shoots. If toxic parts are ingested, observe for symptoms and contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist or are severe.

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Chicken

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of young shoots

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

Young asparagus spears are suitable for chickens in small amounts as a treat. Berries and mature plant parts contain saponins and are toxic. Overfeeding may cause digestive issues. No specific poultry studies found, but conservative classification based on known toxins and poultry feeding practices.

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Duck

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of shoots

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

Young asparagus shoots are safe for ducks in moderation and can be offered as a treat. Berries, woody ends, and mature fronds contain saponins and should be avoided. Ingestion of toxic parts may cause gastrointestinal upset. Ducks should not have access to mature berries.

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Goose

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of young shoots

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

The young shoots of asparagus are suitable for geese in small amounts as an occasional treat. The red berries as well as woody ends and mature fronds contain saponins and can cause gastrointestinal upset. Feeding should be limited to the young, tender shoots. If toxic parts are ingested, observe for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if issues persist.

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Sheep

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of shoots

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

Young asparagus shoots are generally safe for sheep in moderation, while berries and mature plant parts contain saponins that can cause gastrointestinal upset. Sheep should only consume the young, tender shoots and be prevented from accessing berries and woody ends. If large amounts or toxic parts are ingested, the animal should be observed and a veterinarian consulted if symptoms persist.

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Goat

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries, Consumption of woody or mature plant parts

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

The young shoots of asparagus are safe for goats in moderation and can be fed as an occasional treat. The red berries as well as woody ends and mature fronds contain saponins and are toxic or poorly digestible. Ingestion of toxic parts may cause gastrointestinal upset. Goats tend to explore various plant parts, so access to berries and mature plants should be prevented. In case of suspected poisoning, a…

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Cattle

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of young shoots

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

observe

Young asparagus spears are tolerable for cattle in small amounts and can be fed as an occasional supplement. Berries and mature plant parts contain saponins and are toxic. Ingestion of toxic parts may cause gastrointestinal upset. No evidence of severe poisoning in cattle from asparagus spears.

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Pig

Young shoots (asparagus spears)

Berries, Woody ends of spears, Mature fronds

Risk factors

Consumption of berries or mature plant parts, Overconsumption of young shoots

Symptoms

Gastrointestinal upset, Vomiting, Diarrhea

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Young asparagus spears are edible for pigs and can be fed occasionally as a treat. The red berries as well as woody ends and mature fronds contain saponins and are toxic. Overconsumption of young shoots may lead to digestive issues. No indications of severe poisoning in pigs from asparagus spears found, but caution advised due to saponins in other parts.

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These guidelines are for general information only and do not replace veterinary diagnosis. If critical plant parts were ingested or the animal shows unusual behaviour or symptoms, seek veterinary advice.

Max risk

unknown

Highest status

do not feed

Urgency

contact a vet if symptoms appear

Saving seed

Asparagus Saving seed

Seed viability

2 - 3 years

Method

Asparagus is propagated from seed or root divisions. For seed saving, collect the red berries from female plants when soft and deep red (late summer/autumn). Mash berries, wash out seeds, and dry them.

Notes

Male plants are more productive, so propagation by root division is preferred. Seed propagation results in a mix of male and female plants; males can be selected.

Practical tips

Asparagus Practical tips

Common beginner mistakes

Success pattern

High-impact tips

Grower observations

Plant Profile

Additional plant images

Health

Pests, Diseases

Pests

Asparagus beetle (Crioceris asparagi)

Feeding holes on spears and fronds
Discoloration of fronds
Egg clusters on shoots

Asparagus fly (Platyparea poeciloptera)

Wilting and dying shoot tips
Mining tunnels in the spears

Diseases

Asparagus rust (Puccinia asparagi)

Yellow to orange pustules on fronds
Premature dieback of fronds
Plant weakness

Asparagus wilt (Fusarium spp.)

Yellow, wilting fronds
Brown discoloration of roots
Death of whole plants

Deficiencies

Pale, yellowish fronds
Weak growth
Thin spears

Brown tips on spears
Reduced resistance to diseases

Dark green, dull fronds
Poor root development

Plant health

Diagnosis help

Asparagus Diagnosis help

Pest groups

Disease groups

Prevention

Diagnosis

When problems occur, first inspect the fronds, spears, and roots for pests and signs of disease. Nutrient deficiencies often show in leaf color and growth.

Cultural prevention

Monitoring

First response

Diagnostic rules

Orange pustules on fronds

Possible causes: Asparagus rust

Check underside of fronds
Check affected fronds for moisture

Yellowish, wilting fronds and brown roots

Possible causes: Fusarium wilt, Root rot

Dig up roots and check for discoloration
Check soil for waterlogging

Feeding holes on spears and fronds

Possible causes: Asparagus beetle, Lily beetle

Look for beetles and larvae on fronds
Identify egg clusters on shoots

FAQ

When can I harvest asparagus?

Start from the second or third year after planting, from April to mid-June (by St. John's Day at the latest).

Is asparagus suitable for containers?

No, asparagus has deep roots and is perennial, so it is not suitable for container cultivation.

Does asparagus need fertilizer?

Yes, asparagus is a heavy feeder. Fertilize in spring before growth begins and after harvest with compost or organic fertilizer.

Why are my asparagus spears thin?

Possible causes: nutrient deficiency (especially nitrogen), drought, or aging plants. Fertilize and water regularly.

Is Asparagus safe for Dog?

Asparagus is classified as moderation only for Dog. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. Young asparagus spears are suitable for dogs in small amounts as a treat. Berries and mature plant parts contain saponins and can cause gastrointestinal upset. Woody ends are difficult to digest and should be avoided.

Is Asparagus safe for Cat?

Asparagus is classified as moderation only for Cat. Risk: unknown. Urgency: observe. Young asparagus spears are safe for cats in small amounts as an occasional treat. Berries and mature plant parts contain saponins and can cause gastrointestinal upset. Consult a veterinarian if large amounts or unknown plant parts are ingested.

Is Asparagus safe for Rabbit?

Asparagus is classified as moderation only for Rabbit. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. The young shoots of asparagus are generally safe for rabbits in small amounts and can be given as a treat. The red berries as well as woody ends and mature fronds contain saponins and are toxic. Ingestion of toxic parts may cause gastrointestinal upset. Only feed the young, tender shoots and in moderation.

Is Asparagus safe for Budgie?

Asparagus is classified as do not feed for Budgie. Risk: unknown. Urgency: contact a vet if symptoms appear. The young shoots (asparagus spears) are safe for budgies in small amounts, but the red berries as well as woody ends and mature fronds contain saponins that can cause gastrointestinal upset. Budgies should only receive the tender tips and never have access to berries.

Internal links

Related plants

Calendar

broccoli

Often confused with

Occasionally called 'Spargelkohl' (asparagus cabbage) in German, but is a different species.

Vegetables Stalk vegetables Asparagus family

Sources

Public sources

Wikidata entity
Wikidata · 2026-05-15
GBIF species match
GBIF · 2026-05-15
Deutschsprachige Wikipedia: Spargel
Wikipedia · 2026-05-15
English Wikipedia: Asparagus (genus)
Wikipedia · 2026-05-15