if the crowns froze. asparagus can be picked starting the third year when they are as big around as your little finger; this gives them plenty of time to put strength into the crown.
i have read all the comments about the trouble with asparagus, but not sure if my question was answered. so, my situation is a little different in some ways. i planted about 18 roots 2 years ago. they were planted 18 inches deep, per instructions from one who had a bed themselves. the first year i let them go to fern and did not harvest. last year i had many large stalks but let very few go 