The Asparagus - Mary Washington seeds are an heirloom variety known for producing vigorous, uniform spears with a sweet, nutty flavor. These seeds are sourced from a well-established strain of heirloom asparagus, suitable for home gardening. Growing from these seeds allows gardeners to cultivate a perennial vegetable that can produce for 20 or more years, making it a long-term addition to any vegetable garden.

These Mary Washington seeds are non-GMO, open-pollinated heirloom seeds, designed for planting directly into prepared garden beds. The seeds are of high germination quality, ensuring reliable sprouting and healthy plant development. The mature plants develop dense, fern-like foliage that persists after harvest, contributing to garden aesthetics.

Dimensions and Specifications

An established bed of approximately 25 asparagus plants grown from these seeds can yield about 10 pounds of asparagus per year. The plants require a permanent space of at least 12 inches apart in a sunny, well-drained area. Mature plants grow to a height of 6-8 feet of fern foliage during the growing season.

• Germinates in 2-3 weeks under optimal soil temperatures of 60-70°F
• Grows into drought-tolerant, cold-hardy perennial plants capable of withstanding frost with protection
• Produces large, sweet, nutty spears ideal for fresh eating or canning
• Plants develop dense, fern-like foliage that helps suppress weeds
• Requires minimal maintenance once established, including watering and weed control

Use Cases and Ideal Gardeners

The Mary Washington seeds are ideal for gardeners seeking to establish a long-lasting vegetable bed. They are perfect for small-scale family gardens, urban plots, and organic vegetable growers. This variety is suitable for home gardeners prioritizing heirloom, non-hybrid produce. It is suitable for gardeners with limited garden space aiming to produce fresh asparagus over many years, and for those in colder climates who can provide winter protection for overwintering plants.

Care Instructions

Plant seeds directly into well-prepared, fertile soil in a sunny location, spacing them at least 12 inches apart. Keep soil consistently moist during germination and the initial growing period. Once established, asparagus plants require minimal watering; however, regular watering during dry periods supports optimal spear growth. Mulching helps suppress weeds and retain soil moisture. The plants are cold hardy but benefit from winter mulching or protection in harsh climates. Maintenance includes removing weed competition and dividing crowns after 8-10 years, if needed.

The Mary Washington Asparagus is a popular old heirloom variety that produces vigorous, uniform spears with a sweet, nutty flavor. Asparagus plants are perennials that can easily produce for 20+ years, so give this vegetable a permanent and sunny spot in your garden. To ensure many years of future production, wait until the second year to cut and consume the spears. 

• Early producer
• Cold hardy, but protect from frost
• Easy to care for, once established
• Beautiful fern-like foliage lingers after harvest

Asparagus can be considered a power food among veggies. It is packed with vitamins and minerals, delivering a more complete balance than any other. Asparagus is a good source of vitamin A, B6 and C, as well as iron, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, and thiamine. It is high in fiber and low in carbohydrates, contains no fat, no cholesterol and has only 20 calories per 1/2 cup serving.

An established bed of 25 asparagus plants will produce about 10 pounds of asparagus per year!