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

SEED PLANTING TIPS

• Botanical name: Asparagus officinalis
• Depth to plant seeds: .5" deep
• Spacing between plants: 14"-18" apart
• Spacing between rows: 4'-5' apart
• Days to germinate (sprout): 10-14 days
• Germination soil temps: 70F-80F
• Soil needs: 6.0-7.0 pH
• Sun needs: Full sun, partial shade
• Frost hardy: No
• Planting season: Spring, fall
• # of plants per sq. ft.: Appx. 1 plant per sq. ft.
• Days to maturity: 730 days

Click here to view our full Asparagus grow guide. 

Good companion plants: Basil, Dill, Eggplant, Parsley, Tomato

ADDITIONAL PLANT INFORMATION

Health Benefits of Asparagus
Asparagus contains high levels of beta carotene and other vitamins and minerals, and is a great diuretic. Need more fiber? Chew on some asparagus. And if you're looking for help controlling diabetes or preventing kidney stones, plant and eat more asparagus.

Ways to Eat Asparagus
Asparagus is delicious raw or marinated in a little olive oil, lemon juice, and salt. You can also boil, steam, grill, roast, or sauté the spears. Add some asparagus to your other favorite foods such as soups, risottos, lasagnas, and quiches. To preserve your harvest, can up a few jars of pickled asparagus.