Asparagus Seeds - Mary Washington Asparagus

Seed Count: 100 Seeds
Maturity: 2-3 Years to Full Harvest
Growth Habit: Upright, fern-like foliage with vibrant green spears.
Edible Part: Tender, flavorful spears with a slightly nutty, sweet taste.
Uses: Ideal for steaming, grilling, roasting, or adding to soups and salads.
Nutritional Benefits: High in fiber, vitamins A, C, and K, and rich in antioxidants.
Plant Type: Long-lived perennial; thrives in sunny, well-draining garden beds.
Growing Conditions: Prefers sandy, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5-7.5.

History & Heritage:
Mary Washington Asparagus is a timeless heirloom variety with a history that spans over a century. Introduced in the early 20th century, it quickly became a staple in American gardens due to its resilience, productivity, and exceptional flavor. This classic variety continues to be a favorite among gardeners for its ability to produce bountiful harvests year after year, maintaining its reputation as one of the best asparagus varieties available.

Culinary Versatility:
Mary Washington Asparagus is celebrated for its tender, succulent spears with a slightly nutty and sweet flavor. Perfectly suited for a variety of preparations, it can be steamed, grilled, or roasted to highlight its delicate taste. Its crisp texture and vibrant green color also make it a standout ingredient in soups, salads, and stir-fries. A true gourmet vegetable, Mary Washington Asparagus elevates any dish with its flavor and nutritional benefits.

Planting & Growth Tips:
Growing Mary Washington Asparagus requires patience, but the long-lasting rewards make it worth the wait. Follow these tips for successful cultivation:

• Planting: Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost, or sow directly in the garden after the danger of frost has passed. Plant seeds 1-2 inches deep in sandy, well-draining soil.
• Spacing: Space plants 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart to allow room for spreading roots and fern growth.
• Sunlight: Choose a sunny location for optimal growth and spear production.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the establishment phase.
• Care: Apply an annual top-dressing of compost or organic matter to enrich the soil and support vigorous growth. Weed regularly to prevent competition.
• Harvesting: Allow plants to establish for the first 1-2 years without harvesting. By the second or third year, spears can be harvested in early spring when they reach 6-8 inches tall. Stop harvesting once ferns begin to develop.

Why Grow Mary Washington Asparagus?
Mary Washington Asparagus is a gardener’s dream, offering resilience, productivity, and unmatched flavor. Its tender spears provide gourmet quality straight from your garden, and its perennial nature ensures years of abundant harvests with minimal maintenance. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, this heirloom variety is a rewarding addition to any garden, delivering both taste and tradition.