How to Store Asparagus
Asparagus is very perishable and should be cooled immediately after harvest. Think refrigerator first, and use it soon for best quality.
Best storage conditions
Store at 32 to 36 F with 95 to 100 percent humidity, out of light. Keep it in the refrigerator, ideally upright.
How long it keeps
Fresh asparagus usually keeps 5 to 10 days, sometimes up to 2 weeks when held very cold. Quality drops quickly if it warms up or dries out.
Storage methods
Stand spears upright in a shallow inch of water and loosely cover, or wrap the cut ends in a damp towel and refrigerate. Keep tips dry and avoid crushing them. Do not leave asparagus on the counter except briefly.
Freezing & preserving
Blanch and freeze for best long-term storage. Pressure canning is an option only with tested USDA or NCHFP recipes, because asparagus is a low-acid vegetable. Pickling is another common preservation method with tested recipes.
Tips
Trim a little from the base if the ends dry out. Store away from strong-smelling foods, since the tips can pick up odors.
General home-storage guidance. For home canning and preserving safety, follow USDA and National Center for Home Food Preservation (NCHFP) guidelines. Page updated Aug 4, 2026.