Asparagus - Mary Washington (Asparagus officinalis 'Mary Washington') Organic Non GMO Vegetable

Asparagus - Mary Washington (Asparagus officinalis 'Mary Washington') Organic Non GMO Vegetable

Perennial

Mary Washington asparagus is a reliable, disease-resistant heirloom variety known for its thick, tender spears and long lifespan. Though asparagus takes patience to establish, it rewards you with bountiful harvests for up to 20 years!

Step-by-Step Growing Guide

1. Preparing the Garden Bed

Asparagus is a long-lived perennial, so proper bed preparation is essential.

• Choose a sunny location (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight).

• Soil: Loose, well-drained, and rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.5-7.5.

• Amend soil with compost or aged manure before planting.

• Ensure proper drainage—asparagus roots rot in standing water.

2. Growing from Seed

1. Soak seeds in water for 24 hours before planting.

2. Start indoors 10-12 weeks before the last frost in trays or pots with seed-starting mix.

3. Keep soil moist and warm (75-80°F). Seeds take 2-6 weeks to germinate.

4. Once seedlings are 6-12 inches tall, harden them off and transplant outdoors.

Direct Sowing (Spring Planting)

1. After the last frost, plant seeds ½ inch deep and 2 inches apart in rows 12-18 inches apart.

2. Once seedlings emerge, thin to 12-18 inches apart for strong root development.

3. Care and Maintenance

Watering

• Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially in the first year.

• Provide about 1 inch of water per week, increasing during hot, dry weather.

Mulching & Weeding

• Apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch (straw, leaves, or compost) to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

• Avoid deep cultivation as asparagus roots are shallow and easily damaged.

Fertilizing

• First year: Use a balanced organic fertilizer (10-10-10) after plants emerge.

• Established plants: Apply compost or well-rotted manure each fall and a balanced fertilizer in early spring.

Pest & Disease Prevention

• Common Pests: Asparagus beetles—handpick them or use neem oil.

• Diseases: Avoid root rot by planting in well-draining soil.

• Companion Planting: Grow with parsley, basil, or tomatoes for natural pest control.

4. Harvesting Asparagus

Year 1-2 (Patience is Key!)

• Do not harvest spears the first year to allow the plant to establish strong roots.

• In the second year, harvest lightly for 2-3 weeks.

Year 3 and Beyond (Full Harvest!)

• In early spring, harvest spears when they reach 6-8 inches tall and pencil-thick.

• Use a sharp knife or snap spears off at ground level.

• Continue harvesting for 6-8 weeks, then allow ferns to grow.

5. Overwintering & Long-Term Care

• After harvest, allow ferns to grow fully. This feeds the roots for next year’s crop.

• In late fall, cut back dead ferns to 2 inches above the ground.

• Mulch with straw or compost to protect from freezing temperatures.

Seed Count: 50