How to Grow Asparagus in New Zealand
A long-term investment best started from crowns rather than seed. Plant crowns in late winter to spring. Do not harvest for the first two years while the root system builds, then cut spears for 8 to 10 weeks each spring. A well-kept bed crops for 15 to 20 years and does well across most of NZ.
When to plant asparagus in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | August, September, October, November |
| Auckland | August, September, October, November |
| Waikato & BoP | August, September, October, November |
| Wellington | August, September, October, November |
| Nelson & Marlborough | August, September, October, November |
| Canterbury | August, September, October, November |
| Otago & Southland | August, September, October, November |
| Central Otago | August, September, October, November |
Best asparagus varieties for NZ
- Mary Washington — Reliable old standard, good spear size, some rust resistance. (Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds)
- UC157 F1 — High-yielding hybrid with uniform tight-tipped spears. (Kings Seeds)
- Pacific Purple — Sweet tender purple spears, lower fibre, eaten raw or cooked. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
How to grow asparagus
- Space plants about 40cm apart.
- Sow seed around 15cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 730 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 21 days.
Companion planting
Grow asparagus near: Tomato, Parsley, Basil, Marigold.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Slugs, Aphids. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant asparagus in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in August, September, October, November. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy asparagus seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Egmont Seeds, Kings Seeds.