Home Garden

How to Mulch Asparagus in Cold Temperatures

Asparagus is a perennial vegetable that can produce a reliable harvest for 10 to 15 years. It is typically hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 3 to 9. Mulch asparagus during the winter to keep the roots warm and to prevent the asparagus crowns from heaving, which happens when the soil freezes and thaws repeatedly as temperatures fluctuate.

Things You'll Need

  • Mower
  • Organic mulch
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Mow down the asparagus tops or ferns after harvesting and after they die back in the fall. According to Utah State University, you can use the chopped ferns for mulch.

    • 2

      Select additional mulch to supplement the chopped ferns. Colorado State University suggests an organic mulch is best. Examples of organic mulch include compost, straw, wood chips or shredded leaves.

    • 3

      Cover the asparagus crowns with 2 to 3 inches of mulch to keep the roots warm and maintain more constant soil temperatures during the winter. If the asparagus is already mulched because you used mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds during the growing season, then replenish it at this time so it is 2 to 3 inches thick.