Mary Washington Asparagus is a classic heirloom asparagus variety treasured for its dependable productivity, tender thick spears, and exceptional garden longevity. Originating in the United States, this beloved perennial has remained a favorite among home gardeners and commercial growers for generations due to its adaptability, reliable harvests, and robust flavor.
The uniform green spears are prized for their tender texture and slightly sweet earthy flavor, making them excellent for steaming, grilling, roasting, salads, stir-fries, and countless fresh seasonal dishes. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K along with folate and dietary fiber, Mary Washington Asparagus offers both outstanding culinary quality and impressive nutritional benefits.
Growing Mary Washington Asparagus requires patience but rewards gardeners with decades of harvests once established. The plants thrive in fertile well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5 and perform best under full sunlight, though they can tolerate partial shade. Preparing the planting area with abundant organic matter helps encourage strong root development and healthy long-term growth.
Once fully established, Mary Washington Asparagus can continue producing flavorful spears for up to 20 years with proper care, making it one of the most rewarding long-term perennial crops for home gardens and homesteads.
Mary Washington Asparagus Seed Details
- Quantity: 30 Seeds
- Plant Type: Heirloom Asparagus
- Family: Asparagaceae
- Spear Appearance: Thick Green Spears
- Flavor: Slightly Sweet and Earthy
- Best Uses: Steaming, Grilling, Roasting, Salads, Stir-Fries
- Seed Planting Depth: 1 Inch
- Germination Temperature: 68°F
- Days to Germination: Approximately 25 Days
- Row Spacing: 24 Inches
- Plant Spacing: 18 Inches
- 100' Row Yield: 12 Pounds
- Sun Requirements: Full Sun
- Harvest Time: Approximately 3 Years to Full Production
- Special Features: Perennial Crop, Long-Lived Plants, Reliable Producer
How to Save Seeds
Allow asparagus plants to flower naturally during late spring or early summer. The small white or pink flowers will eventually develop into green berries containing seeds.
Once the berries ripen and turn bright red, harvest them carefully from the plants and place them into a container.
Gently crush the berries by hand or with a spoon to release the seeds. Place the seeds into water and stir gently so viable seeds sink while debris floats to the surface for easy removal.
Spread cleaned seeds onto paper towels or screens and allow them to dry thoroughly for several days before storing in an airtight container in a cool dry location for future planting.