Crittergarden, did you have fronds left growing after you stopped harvesting last year? If you did, I think you'll be fine and your asparagus will start coming up soon, mine is up early this year (my bed is at least 6 years old), but normally doesn't come up until May. (the fronds that keep growing into the fall are what "feed" the roots for next year's growth). What I've read in various places, and the rule I follow, is to not pick anything smaller than a pencil.
