Asparagus is a perennial plant known for its slender spears and distinct, mildly earthy flavor, and is a popular vegetable choice for home gardens and commercial cultivation. Originating in Europe, asparagus thrives in temperate climates and sandy soils, producing edible shoots after a few years of establishment. Various asparagus seed varieties offer choices between green, white, and purple asparagus, each with unique characteristics in flavor and growth habits. Growing asparagus from seed provides gardeners with a sustainable, long-term harvest source. Asparagus seeds are available in different types suited for indoor and outdoor growth.
Different Types of Asparagus Seeds
Asparagus offers several seed variants tailored to various gardening needs. Here’s a list of all the different types of asparagus seeds:
- Mary Washington
- Jersey Giant
- Jersey Knight
- Purple Passion
- Atlas
- Apollo
- UC 157
- Viking KB3
- Grande
- Precoce d’Argenteuil
Where to Buy Asparagus Seeds
Select reputable US sellers to ensure quality and germination rates when purchasing asparagus seeds. Below are our top recommendations for reliable seed suppliers:
- True Leaf Market: Provides a diverse range of high-quality seeds for consistent germination and growth, including asparagus.
- Everwilde Farms: Specializes in heirloom and rare seeds, with sustainably sourced asparagus seeds for gardeners seeking non-GMO options.
- Sow Right Seeds: Known for its wide selection and dependable quality, Sow Right Seeds supplies asparagus seeds perfect for indoor and outdoor growing.
- Home Grown Seeds: Offers a broad range of vegetable seeds, including asparagus, focusing on quality and customer satisfaction.
- Survival Garden Seeds: Features robust asparagus seeds designed for survival gardening that are resilient in various growing conditions.
- Gardeners Basics: Supplies essential gardening seeds, including asparagus, and includes detailed planting instructions for successful growth.
- Burpee: A trusted name in gardening, Burpee provides high-quality asparagus seeds with germination guarantees.
Benefits of Growing Asparagus
Growing asparagus offers significant benefits for gardeners and cooks alike, making it a rewarding addition to any garden.
- Perennial crop
- High yield per plant
- Low maintenance
- Tolerates cold climates
- Disease resistant
- Adds diversity to the garden
- Supports soil health
- Rich in nutrients
- Provides continuous harvest
- Great for companion planting
Health Benefits of Asparagus
Asparagus provides substantial health benefits and is rich in essential nutrients and compounds that promote overall health and wellness.
- High in fiber
- Rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K
- Supports digestive health
- Contains antioxidants
- Helps lower blood pressure
- Promotes heart health
- Improves immune function
- Supports eye health
- Aids in weight management
- May reduce cancer risk
How to Grow Asparagus Seeds Indoors
Each asparagus seed variant has slightly different growing needs, and all recommended sellers provide detailed instructions. Below are general steps for growing asparagus indoors:
- Choose Containers: Use deep pots with drainage for proper root development.
- Use Quality Soil: Fill containers with nutrient-rich, well-draining potting soil.
- Sow Seeds: Plant seeds ½ inch deep, spaced evenly in the soil.
- Water Carefully: Keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging.
- Provide Light: Place pots in a sunny location or under grow lights for 10-12 hours daily.
- Maintain Temperature: Keep the indoor temperature around 70°F for optimal growth.
- Thin Seedlings: After germination, thin seedlings to avoid overcrowding.
- Fertilize: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks.
- Monitor Pests: Regularly check for pests and manage promptly if found.
- Transplant Carefully: After 12-14 weeks, transplant the asparagus seedlings to a larger pot or outdoors.
How to Grow Asparagus Seeds Outdoors
Each asparagus variant has slightly different outdoor requirements; all recommended sellers provide specific instructions. Below are general steps for growing asparagus outdoors:
- Choose Location: Select a sunny, well-drained area with sandy soil.
- Prepare Soil: Amend soil with compost for fertility and drainage.
- Direct Sow Seeds: Plant seeds ½ inch deep, spaced about 2 inches apart.
- Water Regularly: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during germination.
- Apply Mulch: Add mulch to retain moisture and reduce weed growth.
- Provide Spacing: Thin seedlings to allow for proper root and spear growth.
- Fertilize Annually: Add organic fertilizer or compost to support growth.
- Control Weeds: Weed the area regularly to minimize competition.
- Manage Pests: Use natural pest control methods as needed.
- Harvest Sparingly: In the second or third year, begin harvesting lightly to establish a healthy root system.
About Worldly Seeds
What began as a traditional seed store has evolved into a platform that aligns with our family’s love for travel and dynamic lifestyle. While our passion for selling seeds was unwavering, we decided to shut down the store to focus on teaching others how to start a seed-selling business. We provide detailed information on where to purchase seeds and offer expert advice on growing, caring for, and harvesting them. Our frequent international travels made operating a home-based seed store impractical. Nonetheless, our part-time seed business earned nearly $250,000 in two years, allowing us to live our dream life. Today, we are dedicated to helping others start their own seed businesses and achieve similar success. We recommend only those we trust and have personally worked with for gardening enthusiasts seeking growing tips or reliable seed suppliers in America. Although we no longer sell seeds directly, Worldly Seeds continues to flourish through your gardening and entrepreneurial achievements!