Asparagus is a perennial crop and should produce for 10 to 15 years. Site selection and preparation should begin at least one year prior to planting in order to properly adjust soil pH and eliminate serious perennial weed problems. Select soils that are deep and well drained, such as sandy loams or well-drained loams. The site should not have been planted to asparagus for a long time, or, preferably, should never have been used for this crop. Try to avoid areas subject to late spring frosts as emerging spears are easily injured.