At first glance, an asparagus knife might seem like an unnecessary tool. A marketing ploy, like a “sunlight meter”, that isn’t actually needed. And to be fair, I thought the same.
The truth, however, is that asparagus knies can actually be quite useful. They make the process of harvesting easier and are beneficial to the plant.
In this guide I’ll offer a few buying tips and review some of the more popular products on the market. Let’s dig in.
The Short Version: Best Asparagus Knives
(Scroll down for in-depth reviews)
- Burgon & Ball Asparagus Knife (££) (Top Pick)
- DeWit “Daisy Grubber” (££)
- Darlac Asparagus Knife (£) (Budget Option)
What is an asparagus knife?
An asparagus knife is simply a tool for cutting asparagus stalks! There are two types and both are included in the short reviews below.
You have weeder-style knives that are essentially metal shafts with a blade at the end. The other type resembles a normal knife with a light curve. They tend to have a blade at the tip (like the weeder-style one) along with a serrated inner edge.
The sharp tip lets you cut your asparagus below the ground, giving you a bigger asparagus spear and protecting the crown of the plant. Tugging the spear off with your finger can damage the plant. Leaving a stub above the ground can also make it susceptible to damage from wind and weather. A clean cut is always better.
The key with an asparagus knife is to keep the blade sharp. Because you’re applying a thrusting motion under the ground, if it’s not sharp you’ll just end up squashing the base of the spear.
Features to look for in an asparagus knife
- Carbon steel: Carbon steel (steel which has carbon content) tends to be harder and longer-lasting than other types.
- Powder coated or stainless steel/aluminium: Make sure that your knife is painted (preferably powder-coated) or made using a metal, like aluminium, that doesn’t rust.
- Wooden or ergonomic handle: If you need an ergonomic or padded handle, then make sure that the knife has this feature. Personally I prefer the feel and durability of wooden handles. Wood that’s FSC-approved (Forest Stewardship Council) is a bonus.
- Sharp blade: This can be difficult to ascertain if buying online. Most knives from reputable companies will have a sharp blade so I wouldn’t worry too much. You can, after all, always sharpen at home.
Best asparagus knives: Some picks from around the web
***Full Disclosure – Where appropriate, I’ve linked product images to commercial sites and Amazon (see Amazon Disclosure). If you buy from these sites, I earn a small affiliate fee, which helps me keep Urban Turnip going.***
1. Burgon and Ball Harvesting and Asparagus Knife
This asparagus knife from Burgon and Ball is a really high-quality piece and my favourite of all the ones I looked at. It has a carbon steel powder-coated blade, a hardwood handle and a leather strap for hanging.
The mix of the sharp edge and serrated blade allows you to cut asparagus in two different ways—either under the ground with a stabbing motion or at the surface of the soil with a sawing movement.
It also comes with a protection sleeve. It’s 31cm/12 in. long. Kept oiled and properly looked after, it should last you a very long time.
2. DeWit “Daisy Grubber”
I really, really like DeWit products. They’re a Dutch company and make a range of gardening tools. This “daisy grubber”, so called because it can be used to dig up small weeds like daises, has everything you would expect.
Along with looking great, its blade and stem are made from powder-coated hardened steel and the hardwood handle is ash.
It comes with a lifetime guarantee (a vote of confidence if ever I’ve heard one). If you’re anything like me, you’ll know what it feels like to get attached to your gardening tools! I imagine this knife will soon cement its position in the shed family if you do decide to buy it.
3. Darlac Asparagus Knife
Darlac is a top-notch company and this serrated harvesting knife is perfect if you prefer a rubber handle. It’s won an award, too, apparently. The steel blade is rust resistant.
It’s a little cheaper than the other entries on this page but its still a quality item. It’s also a great tool for cutting cabbages and lettuces at the base.
For asparagus, just slip it beneath the soil line and cut back towards you diagonally.
Let us know your thoughts! Leave a comment below!
What are your thoughts? Have you tried any of the products on this list? Leave a comment below and let me know!
Image credit: Todd Heft
You have no links to any of these knives….
Hey Joe! If you click the images you’ll be taken to the site with the product.