Mary Washington Asparagus Seeds

Mary Washington Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is a classic heirloom variety, prized for its vigorous growth, long-lasting productivity, and delicious, tender spears. Known for its reliable cold-hardiness and disease resistance, Mary Washington produces thick, dark green spears with purple tips that are rich in flavor. As a perennial vegetable, it reliably returns year after year, with mature plants producing high yields for up to 20 years. Ideal for fresh eating, steaming, roasting, or grilling, this variety is a must-have for any home garden.

• Approximately 100 Seeds Per Pack
  
• Type: Open-pollinated, Perennial
  
• USDA Zones: 3–10
  
• Days to Germinate: 14-21 days
  
• Days to Maturity: 2–3 years from seed 
  
• Plant Height: 4–6 feet (fern stage)
  
• Sunlight: Full Sun
  
• Soil: Rich, Well-draining, Loamy
  
• Flavor: Mild, sweet, nutty
  
• Use: Fresh, steamed, roasted, grilled, or added to casseroles and salads

Uses

Mary Washington Asparagus is highly valued for its culinary flexibility:

• Fresh: Tender young spears can be enjoyed raw in salads or lightly blanched.
• Cooked: Steam, roast, or grill for a sweet, earthy flavor that pairs well with butter, garlic, or lemon.
• Preserved: Blanch and freeze for long-term storage, maintaining flavor and texture.

Growing Instructions

Start Mary Washington Asparagus seeds indoors 4–12 weeks before the last expected frost. Soak seeds for 24 hours before sowing to enhance germination. Plant seeds 1/2 inch deep in trays filled with rich, well-draining potting mix. Once seedlings reach 6–8 inches, transplant them into permanent beds with well-prepared, fertile soil. Space plants 12-24 inches apart in rows spaced 3–4 feet apart. Asparagus requires full sun and consistent moisture, but be careful to avoid waterlogged conditions. Patience is key: allow plants to establish for two to three years before harvesting spears. Mature plants produce reliably for up to two decades.