Asparagus Mary Washington

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Mary Washington asparagus is a classic variety cherished for its tender, flavorful spears and dependable performance. This perennial plant thrives in full sun and well-draining soil, offering consistent harvests each spring. 

Known for its resistance to rust and other common asparagus diseases, Mary Washington is a low-maintenance choice for gardeners. Its sweet, mild flavor makes it ideal for fresh eating, steaming, or incorporating into recipes. With its heritage status and reliable productivity, Mary Washington asparagus is a must-have for any vegetable garden. 

This is the most popular U.S. variety of asparagus, the standard commercial strain. It is resistant to some rust and blight and offers a cutting season of six weeks. Produces long straight spears with tight tips. Mary Washington asparagus crowns are long lived and well adapted to West Coast conditions. Mary Washington is the hardiest asparagus strain tested by our supplier.

• 10 root crowns per bundle
• Crowns are 2 years old 
• Hardy in USDA zones 3-9
• Asparagus prefers a sweet soil with a pH of 6.8 to 7.2
• Taste is sweet and nutty
• Harvest April to May

Note: Do not be alarmed if there is small amounts of bluish-white mold on your rootstock, this is absolutely normal. It occurs from the cold storage process used to keep the plants dormant. This mold can be wiped off and will not affect the health of the plant. However, if the plants are rotten and/or mushy, please give us a call.

Planting asparagus can be a rewarding and delicious addition to any garden. Asparagus Mary Washington is a standard commercial strain and popular U.S. variety known for its long, straight spears with tight tips, making it a preferred choice for many gardeners.

Here's a guide to successfully grow asparagus:

Soil Preparation:

Asparagus prefers well-draining soil with a pH level ranging from 6.8 to 7.2. Aim for a sweet soil composition to support healthy growth.

Before planting, ensure the soil is rich in organic matter by incorporating compost or aged manure. This helps provide essential nutrients for robust asparagus development.

Planting:

Asparagus is typically grown from crowns, which are the root systems of the plant. Plant crowns in early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, to allow for ample time for establishment before the growing season.

Dig trenches around 12 inches deep and 18 inches wide. Space crowns around 12 to 18 inches apart within the trenches to ensure adequate room for growth.

Place crowns in the trenches with the roots spread out and cover them with about 2 inches of soil. As the plants grow, gradually fill in the trenches to cover the crowns completely.

Planting in a raised bed with full sun can provide an optimal space for a small home addition to the garden

Care and Maintenance:

Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during the initial growing period. Asparagus requires regular watering, particularly during dry spells.

Mulch the bed with a layer of organic material, such as straw or shredded leaves, to help retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.

Fertilize asparagus with a balanced fertilizer or compost in the spring before spears emerge to provide necessary nutrients for vigorous growth. Composted manure can be great for this.

Avoid harvesting asparagus spears during the first two years after planting to allow the plants to establish strong root systems. This patience ensures healthier yields in subsequent years.

Monitor Soil temperatures an ideal soil temperature of 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit is preferred.

Harvesting:

Asparagus Mary Washington typically has a cutting season lasting around 6 weeks, typically from April to May. Begin harvesting spears when they reach around 6 to 8 inches tall in height and are as thick as your finger.

Cut spears at ground level using a sharp knife or garden shears. Harvest regularly, but avoid over-harvesting to allow the remaining spears to develop fully.

Once the cutting season ends, allow the remaining spears to grow and mature into fern-like foliage. These ferns will replenish the plant's energy reserves for the next growing season.

Pest and Disease Management:

Asparagus is relatively pest and disease-resistant but may occasionally face challenges such as rust and blight. Monitor plants regularly for signs of pest infestation or disease symptoms and take appropriate measures to address them promptly.

Keep your garden healthy by removing any diseased or damaged leaves and properly getting rid of them to stop pests and diseases from spreading.

Overall, growing asparagus can be a fulfilling experience for gardeners, providing a bountiful harvest of delicious and nutritious spears. With proper care and attention to soil preparation, planting, and maintenance, you can enjoy a thriving asparagus patch for years to come.

For more information, please enjoy our Growing Guide for planting and growing asparagus.

Browse our collection of asparagus.