Mary's Granddaughter Asparagus Seeds

An outstanding modern asparagus selection developed from the famous Mary Washington lineage, combining the classic flavor gardeners have loved for generations with improved vigor, spear quality, and productivity. This premium variety produces an abundance of thick, tender, deep green spears with tightly closed tips and excellent uniformity. Designed for today's home gardeners and market growers, Mary's Granddaughter offers the dependable performance of a classic heirloom with the advantages of modern plant breeding.

Mary's Granddaughter produces exceptionally tender spears with a sweet, buttery flavor and very little bitterness. The thick stalks remain succulent when harvested young, offering a delicate grassy freshness with subtle nutty undertones. Its refined flavor is excellent for both simple home cooking and gourmet recipes.

Start seeds indoors approximately 10 to 12 weeks before the final spring frost, or sow outdoors once the soil has warmed. Soaking the seeds overnight before planting helps improve germination. Sow seeds about 1/2 inch deep in a well-drained growing medium and keep evenly moist. Germination generally occurs within 14 to 28 days.

Transplant seedlings into a permanent bed in full sun with deep, fertile, well-drained soil that has been enriched with compost or well-aged organic matter. Space plants generously to allow crowns to mature fully. Avoid harvesting during the establishment period so the crowns can develop strong root systems. Once established, a properly maintained planting can remain productive for 15 to 20 years or longer.

Harvest spears when they reach 6 to 8 inches tall and before the tips begin to loosen. Snap or cut the spears at ground level. Continue harvesting until spear diameter naturally decreases, then allow the remaining shoots to grow into tall fern-like foliage that stores energy for the following year's crop. Fresh asparagus is best enjoyed shortly after harvest but may be refrigerated for several days or blanched and frozen for long-term storage.