I had never planted asparagus before and had no idea what the crowns would look like. It was a surprise to see these lovely roots. I was unable to plant them for two weeks, but finally got them in the ground and in no time at all (maybe two weeks?) they began to sprout lovely, ferny plants, and many tiny asparagus stalks are coming up, much to my excitement and amazement. They seem to grow overnight when it rains. I can hardly wait for the "light" harvest a year from now, and look forward to years of asparagus to come. I had six extra plants, so I gave them to a next-door neighbor who planted them even later than I did, but those plants are also thriving! I am delighted with the beginning - and with the great quality of the Jersey Knight male hybrids you shipped me!