How to prune asparagus

Cut down spent fronds in late autumn or early winter after they yellow; harvest spears in spring. In autumn, cut all yellowed fern growth to within 2–5 cm (1–2 in) of the soil and remove it from the bed to reduce pest and disease carryover. Do not cut green fronds — the plant is still photosynthesising and storing energy in the crown.

Annually in autumn; spears harvested daily in spring. Asparagus requires specific seasonal cutting rather than traditional pruning. Harvest spears by snapping or cutting at ground level in spring. Let remaining spears grow into ferny fronds all summer to feed the crown. Cut the entire top growth down to ground level in late autumn once fronds turn yellow-brown.

In autumn, cut all yellowed fern growth to within 2–5 cm (1–2 in) of the soil and remove it from the bed to reduce pest and disease carryover. Do not cut green fronds — the plant is still photosynthesising and storing energy in the crown.