Mary Washington Asparagus Seeds

A classic heirloom variety prized for its tender green spears, dependable production, and excellent flavor. Once established, this long-lived perennial vegetable can produce delicious spring harvests for many years, making it one of the most rewarding crops a home gardener can plant. Mary Washington is especially valued for its sturdy spears, attractive ferny foliage, and old-fashioned reliability in permanent vegetable beds.

Mary Washington Asparagus has a fresh, mildly sweet, grassy flavor with a tender texture when harvested young. The spears are rich and savory when steamed, roasted, grilled, or sautéed, and they pair beautifully with butter, olive oil, lemon, garlic, Parmesan cheese, eggs, potatoes, seafood, chicken, and spring herbs.

Sow seeds indoors 10 to 12 weeks before the last expected spring frost, or sow directly outdoors after the soil has warmed. Soak seeds overnight before planting to help speed germination. Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep in a well-drained seed-starting mix and keep evenly moist. Germination can be slow, often taking 14 to 28 days.

Transplant seedlings into a permanent bed in full sun and fertile, well-drained soil. Asparagus is a long-term crop, so prepare the bed deeply with compost before planting. Space plants generously to allow crowns room to mature. Do not harvest heavily the first year from seed; allow plants to build strong roots. Begin light harvests once plants are well established, usually in the second or third year, depending on vigor.