Learn how to save asparagus seeds from your plant!
One of the greatest surprises in our little asparagus patch was realizing we had a female plant. Some aren’t big fans of female asparagus plants because they generally don’t produce as much or live as long as male asparagus plants (source).
But they do produce asparagus spears, and they also produce seeds! That means you can grow more plants by harvesting the seeds from your female plant’s berries. So let’s walk through the process of when to get those seeds and how to store them.
-OVERVIEW-
- Pick berries from female plants once they turn red or reddish-brown.
- Break berries open between fingers to release seeds.
- Spread firm black seeds out to dry; store in a dry spot.
Step 1: Remove ripe berries
You’ll know you have a female plant when you let your plants fern out and begin seeing small green balls on the ferns. These small berries hold the seeds, but don’t harvest the berries until they are ripe.
You can harvest them once they are a red or reddish brown color. Below are some examples—the first photo on the left shows green berries that are not ready to pick. Compare those to the berries on the right, which are ready to pick.
Step 2: Squish seeds out
Next you’ll squish the seeds out. The berries are firm, but you should be able to break them open by squishing them between two fingers. Each of the berries should contain 4 to 5 small black seeds.
When you pull the seeds out of the berries, try to squish them between your fingers. If they are nice and firm, they are good to go. If they are soft or lightly colored, they are probably not viable. Once you’ve identified all of the keepers, spread them out over a paper towel to dry.
Step 3: Store in a dry place
Once the seeds are totally dry, you can store just as you’d store any other seed you’ve saved. I will plan to start these seeds very early next year, likely in February. You want to start them 3 to 4 months before your average last frost date. I will detail that process when the time comes. Until then!
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Brittany is a seasoned DIY home and garden expert, running a creative brand since 2014 that inspires others with approachable plant care guides, woodworking tutorials, and decor projects. She is a certified project manager and has completed extensive coursework in the art and science of growing your own plants. Her work has been recognized by major publications, and she routinely collaborates with fellow DIY industry leaders—but her favorite thing to do is inspire you! Learn more about her here.
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