Jersey Giant Asparagus

Start Jersey Giant seeds indoors in a warm environment between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. However, this variety is typically sold as 1-year crowns rather than seeds, which accelerates the path to first harvest.

Transplant 1-year crowns outdoors in early spring, before the last frost date in your region. Dig planting holes deep enough to accommodate the crown without crowding the roots, spacing them 18 inches apart in rows 18 inches apart. Harden off crowns if they've been stored indoors, and plant once soil is workable and air temperatures remain above freezing.

Begin harvesting spears in the second or third year after planting, once the plant is fully established. Cut spears at ground level when they reach 6 to 8 inches tall and before the tips begin to loosen and open. Harvest regularly during the spring season to encourage continued production. The variety achieves full productivity within 365 days of planting, though the first year focuses on crown establishment rather than aggressive harvesting.

Allow Jersey Giant to develop its full upright growth habit without aggressive pruning. In late fall or early winter, cut down the ferny foliage to ground level once it yellows and dies back naturally. Remove any dead or diseased stems throughout the growing season to maintain plant vigor.