How to Grow Asparagus Guide

Growing Non-GMO Mary Washington Asparagus Crowns

Choose a sunny location with well-drained, loamy soil and ensure a slightly acidic to neutral pH between 6.5-7.0. Start by digging a trench about 10 inches deep. Add about 3 inches of well-rotted manure or compost into the center of the trench to prepare a fertile environment. Replace some of the removed soil to form a ridge down the length of your trench. Plant the bud/crown approximately at soil level on top of the ridge with the roots extending downward over the edges of the mound. This ridge helps provide good drainage and support to the crown. Cover the roots with at least 3 inches of soil. Firm in and water. Space plants 18 inches apart with rows also at least 18 inches apart. Planting is typically done in early spring. While the exact days to maturity are not specified, crowns should be well-established for at least 3 years before gathering a full harvest.

During the first two years, lightly harvest spears until the plants are well-established. In the second year you can harvest about half of your asparagus crop when it is about 6 inches tall. Adequate irrigation is crucial, with 1 to 2 inches of water per week during the early years, gradually reducing to every 2-3 weeks after the fourth year. Mulching around the plants with compost or grass clippings helps retain soil moisture and control weeds. Pruning is a key aspect, and it is recommended to wait until all foliage has turned brown or yellow after the first frost, cutting the plants back to the soil surface and applying mulch for protection. Vigilance against common pests like asparagus beetles and diseases such as crown and spear rot is essential.

Mary Washington Asparagus in the Vegetable Garden

Mary Washington Asparagus serves as a versatile and valuable addition to both home and commercial gardens. Beyond its primary role as a perennial vegetable crop, it offers additional benefits to the garden ecosystem. The feathery fern-like foliage produced after spear harvest enhances the aesthetic appeal of the garden and can be used in floral arrangements, adding a touch of grace. While not widely recognized as a companion plant or pest deterrent, its robust growth and dense foliage contribute to weed suppression, fostering a cleaner and more manageable garden environment. Furthermore, as a long-lasting perennial, Mary Washington Asparagus provides a stable and reliable element in the garden landscape. Its adaptability to a variety of climates and soil conditions makes it a resilient choice for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, high-yield vegetable crop with additional aesthetic and ecological benefits.

Harvesting Mary Washington Asparagus

Harvesting Mary Washington Asparagus involves a careful and timely process to ensure optimal flavor and ongoing productivity. Asparagus spears should be lightly harvested during the first two years until the plants are well-established. By the third year, a full harvest can commence, typically from late April until the spears begin to thin, usually in late June. Spears are ready for harvest when they reach a length of 5 to 9 inches. Harvesting is done by either cutting just below the soil surface or snapping the spear off just above the ground by bending it from the top toward the soil. Morning harvests are recommended when air temperatures are cooler. After harvest, immerse the spears in ice water, drain, pat dry, and refrigerate immediately. This refrigeration method can keep the asparagus fresh for up to a week. For longer storage, freezing is an option. First, blanch the spears for two minutes in boiling water, dry on paper towels, and place them in freezer bags for later use. Regular and careful harvesting not only ensures a delectable supply of asparagus but also promotes the long-term health and vigor of the plants.

About Mary Washington Asparagus Crowns

Mary Washington Asparagus is a well-known heirloom variety that has been cherished by gardeners for its exceptional flavor and reliable performance.

Originating in the United States, Mary Washington is a cold-hardy perennial that thrives in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.

This variety, known for its resistance to rust and Fusarium, is a popular choice for home gardens due to its ease of cultivation and ability to produce an abundance of medium to large, purplish-tinged, tender shoots.

Mary Washington Asparagus is dioecious and produces all female plants. The berries that they produce are toxic and should not be consumed.

To ensure successful cultivation, it's essential to plant Mary Washington in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.5-7.0. Adequate sunlight, spacing of 18 inches between plants, and rows spaced a minimum of 18 inches apart are recommended.

Asparagus plants, including Mary Washington, benefit from a balanced fertilizer application, particularly phosphorus and potassium, with the first three years requiring more frequent fertilization. It's crucial to avoid overharvesting during the early years to promote long-term plant health.

Mary Washington stands out not only for its delicious spears but also for its contribution to floral arrangements through its graceful, feathery fern-like leaves. Asparagus, in general, is a nutritious addition to diets, rich in essential vitamins and minerals.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Try companion planting with tomatoes. Planting tomatoes near your asparagus can provide mutual benefits. Tomatoes repel the common asparagus beetle, a potential pest for asparagus plants. Conversely, the asparagus emits certain compounds that are believed to enhance the flavor and health of nearby tomatoes. This symbiotic relationship not only promotes a healthier garden ecosystem but also adds a practical and flavorful touch to your home garden. Just ensure adequate spacing between the plants to prevent competition for resources, and enjoy the benefits of this dynamic gardening duo."

- Chelsea Hafer, True Leaf Market Writer

Mary Washington Asparagus Crowns Per Package:

• 5 Asparagus Crowns
• 10 Asparagus Crowns
• 25 Asparagus Crowns

Non-GMO Mary Washington Asparagus Crowns are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.