Seeds: When properly stored, planted, and cared for, we guarantee reasonable germination and true-to-type growth for one year from purchase.
Non-seed products: Free from defects in materials and workmanship for 30 days from shipment.
Excludes factors outside our control (extreme weather, pests, gardener error). If something’s off, contact us—we’ll make it right with a replacement, repair, or refund.
USDA “bioengineered (BE)” foods are those with detectable genetic material that was modified using in vitro recombinant DNA (rDNA) techniques, in ways
not obtainable through conventional breeding or found in nature. The USDA’s National Bioengineered Food Disclosure Standard uses “bioengineered” as the nationwide labeling term.
Detectable modified genetic material in the final food
Created via in vitro rDNA techniques (e.g., gene transfer)
Modifications not achievable through conventional breeding or nature
—seeds / pkt
( ~ g )
Description
UC-157 asparagus is the benchmark for dependable, high-yield asparagus production, developed for uniform spear quality and strong adaptability. Its deep green spears, often tipped with a soft violet hue, are straight, tightly budded, and exceptionally tender from tip to base.
This modern variety was bred for early vigor, heat tolerance, and disease resistance—performing well across a range of climates from cool northern zones to warm southern fields. Once established, the crowns produce abundant harvests for 12–15 years, delivering consistently high yields and superior texture with a mild, nutty-sweet flavor.
UC-157 remains a favorite among both commercial growers and home gardeners for its combination of reliability, beauty, and gourmet eating quality—proving that precision breeding and timeless flavor can coexist in perfect balance.
How to Sow and Plant Asparagus
1. Choosing the Right Location
Light Requirements:
Asparagus thrives in full sun and requires at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. A warm, south-facing bed ensures vigorous spear production and reduces fungal pressure. Avoid shaded areas near trees or tall crops, as asparagus roots are long-lived and compete poorly with deep-rooted neighbors.
Soil Requirements:
Asparagus prefers deep, loose, well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Sandy loam is ideal for early spring harvests, while heavier soils should be amended for drainage. Since asparagus is a long-lived perennial (lasting 15–20 years), invest in thorough soil preparation before planting.
Soil Preparation Tip:
Loosen the top 12–18 inches of soil and incorporate 3–4 inches of well-aged compost or rotted manure. Mix in bone meal for phosphorus and wood ash or greensand for potassium—both critical for long-term root development. Avoid fresh manure, which can cause root burn or promote weeds.
2. Starting Seeds Indoors
Timing:
Start seeds indoors 10–12 weeks before the last expected frost date. Asparagus germinates slowly, so early starts are essential for strong transplants by late spring.
Containers and Medium:
Use 3–4 inch pots or deep cell trays filled with a well-draining seed-starting mix. A loose texture allows the fine roots to develop freely.
Sowing Depth:
Sow seeds ½ inch deep and cover lightly with soil or vermiculite. Mist gently to moisten evenly without compacting the soil.
Germination Conditions:
Maintain a soil temperature of 75–85°F (24–29°C) for germination. A heat mat may speed the process, as asparagus can take 14–21 days to sprout.
Light After Germination:
Once seedlings emerge, provide 12–14 hours of bright light daily under grow lights. Keep lights 2–3 inches above seedlings and adjust as they grow. Rotate trays regularly for even growth.
3. Transplanting Seedlings
Thinning:
When seedlings reach 2–3 inches tall and develop true leaves, thin to one strong plant per cell or pot. Weak seedlings can be composted or transplanted elsewhere for experimentation.
Potting Up:
If starting in shallow trays, transplant to individual pots once roots fill the cells. Water well to reduce transplant shock.
Hardening Off:
7–10 days before outdoor transplanting, gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions. Begin with 2–3 hours of filtered sunlight, increasing time daily while slightly reducing watering to strengthen stems.
4. Planting Outdoors
Timing:
Transplant when soil temperatures consistently reach 60°F (16°C) and all danger of frost has passed. For most temperate regions, this means late spring.
Planting Method (Crown Trenches):
Prepare trenches 10–12 inches deep and 12 inches wide. Space trenches 3–4 feet apart for airflow and access.
Fill the bottom of each trench with 2–3 inches of compost-rich soil to form a small ridge.
Space seedlings or 1-year-old crowns 12–18 inches apart along the ridge.
Spread roots evenly over the mound and cover with 2 inches of soil.
As plants grow, gradually fill in the trench over several weeks until level with the surface.
Watering at Planting:
Water thoroughly after transplanting to settle soil around roots. Keep soil evenly moist but never waterlogged—overly wet soil can cause crown rot.
5. Watering and Moisture Management
Initial Watering:
Maintain consistent moisture during germination and establishment. Asparagus roots are sensitive to drying out, especially in their first season.
Ongoing Watering:
Once established, water deeply every 5–7 days, providing 1–1½ inches of water weekly. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses help deliver moisture directly to the root zone without wetting foliage.
Mulching:
After transplanting, apply 2–3 inches of organic mulch (straw, shredded leaves, or composted bark) around the base. This conserves moisture, prevents weeds, and keeps soil temperatures steady.
6. Temperature and Climate Conditions
Asparagus grows best in moderate climates with warm days and cool nights.
Ideal Range: 70–85°F (21–29°C) daytime; above 55°F (13°C) at night.
Cold Tolerance: Mature crowns survive winter freezes under mulch but young seedlings need protection from frost.
Heat Management: In regions exceeding 90°F (32°C), use light shade cloth to prevent soil overheating during early establishment.
7. Fertility and Soil Feeding
Before planting, mix compost or a balanced organic fertilizer (e.g., 5-5-5) into the bed. Once new growth appears, side-dress with compost every 3–4 weeks through the first summer.
Avoid heavy nitrogen applications, which produce excessive fern growth at the expense of root development.
Supplement with bone meal or liquid kelp midseason to support crown health.
8. Spacing and Airflow
Space plants 12–18 inches apart within rows and 3–4 feet between rows. This spacing ensures good airflow, sunlight penetration, and long-term maintenance access.
Avoid crowding—healthy air circulation reduces fungal disease and encourages upright fern growth.
9. Organic Pest and Disease Prevention at Planting
Healthy soil and proper spacing form the best natural defense.
Pests: Watch for asparagus beetles, aphids, and slugs. Remove beetles by hand, introduce lady beetles, or apply neem oil as needed.
Diseases: Prevent fusarium crown rot and rust by rotating beds every 8–10 years and keeping weeds down. Avoid planting in low-lying, waterlogged soil.
Beneficial Companions: Interplant with parsley, basil, or marigold to deter pests naturally. Avoid onions, garlic, or potatoes nearby, as they can compete for nutrients.
How to Grow — Asparagus UC-157
Soil Preparation
UC-157 thrives in loose, well-drained sandy loam with moderate fertility and a slightly alkaline pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Before planting, loosen the top 12 inches of soil and work in compost, aged manure, or other organic matter to improve texture and drainage. This variety performs exceptionally well in light soils that warm quickly in spring—ideal for early spear emergence. Avoid compacted or poorly drained areas, as these promote root rot and crown decline.
Because UC-157 is bred for productivity and uniform spear quality, maintaining rich, aerated soil ensures consistent harvests year after year.
Watering
UC-157 is drought-tolerant once established but produces its best spears with consistent moisture. Deep watering encourages robust root growth and stronger crowns.
During spear production: Provide 1–1.5 inches of water per week, keeping soil evenly moist but not soggy.
During fern growth: Reduce watering slightly but continue deep soaking every 7–10 days.
During dormancy: Water sparingly, just enough to prevent soil from completely drying out.
Mulch heavily after the soil warms in spring to retain moisture and regulate temperature. Overhead watering should be avoided to reduce fungal issues; instead, irrigate at soil level or use drip systems.
Fertilizing
UC-157 responds strongly to consistent feeding. Apply organic fertilizer or compost twice yearly:
Early Spring: Before new shoots appear, apply a balanced organic fertilizer (4-4-4 or 5-5-5) or a generous layer of compost to stimulate early spear development.
Post-Harvest (early summer): Side-dress with compost, bone meal, or kelp meal to restore nutrients and strengthen crowns for the next growing season.
Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can cause spindly ferns and weak spears. A balanced ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium supports both spear yield and root longevity.
Weeding & Mulching
Asparagus roots are shallow, so weed carefully by hand to avoid crown damage. A 2–3 inch mulch layer made of straw, shredded leaves, or compost suppresses weeds, retains moisture, and keeps soil temperatures stable.
Renew mulch annually after harvest and maintain coverage year-round, except during very wet periods when excess moisture might invite rot.
Fern Growth & Seasonal Maintenance
After the harvest season ends, allow UC-157 spears to grow into tall, feathery ferns. These ferns capture sunlight and build up carbohydrate reserves that feed the crowns over winter.
Summer: Keep ferns lush and upright; remove any diseased or yellowing stems.
Fall: Once ferns fully brown, cut them down to ground level and clear debris to prevent overwintering pests such as asparagus beetles.
Winter: Apply a 2-inch layer of compost or straw mulch to insulate the crowns and nourish the soil for spring.
Healthy fern growth is vital for next year’s productivity—never cut ferns prematurely.
Sun & Temperature
UC-157 requires full sun (6–8 hours daily) to achieve strong spear production and thick, tender stalks. It performs exceptionally well in warm and semi-arid climates, maintaining spear quality even under higher temperatures. Ideal daytime temperatures range from 70–90°F (21–32°C) during active growth. In hotter regions, light afternoon shade prevents fern scorching, while in cooler climates, black plastic mulch can help warm the soil for earlier spear production.
Airflow & Spacing
For disease prevention and vigor, space crowns 12–18 inches apart with 3–4 feet between rows. This allows for adequate air circulation, efficient watering, and easy access for harvesting and maintenance. Proper spacing is especially important for UC-157, as its rapid spear growth can quickly create dense stands if crowded.
Pruning & General Care
Prune dead ferns to the ground after frost, and remove debris to eliminate potential beetle or rust habitat. Each spring, check for heaved crowns (from frost) and gently reset them at soil level if needed.
Every 3–4 years, top-dress the bed with compost or aged manure to refresh soil nutrients. Avoid tilling near crowns, as this can damage root systems and reduce yields.
Pest & Disease Prevention
UC-157’s hybrid vigor gives it moderate natural resistance, but proactive care still matters:
Asparagus Beetles: Handpick adults and larvae early in the season; use neem oil as a deterrent if infestations persist.
Rust & Fusarium: Maintain good airflow, water at the base, and rotate crops if symptoms appear. Avoid waterlogging to prevent crown rot.
Aphids: Wash off with water or apply insecticidal soap.
Encouraging beneficial insects like ladybugs, hoverflies, and lacewings helps maintain ecological balance.
Fern & Root Renewal
UC-157 is particularly responsive to end-of-season renewal. After ferns die back, apply a thin layer of compost and a potassium-rich amendment such as wood ash or greensand. This strengthens root systems and ensures vigorous spear emergence the following spring.
Long-Term Bed Management
UC-157 is bred for durability and productivity, often producing abundantly for 12–15 years under good management. Each year, practice:
Deep watering through the active season
Timely mulching and feeding
End-of-season pruning and cleanup
These practices maintain soil health and prevent exhaustion of the crowns, keeping the bed strong and uniform for many seasons to come.
Additional Tips — Asparagus UC-157
Harvesting
Harvest spears when they are 6–8 inches tall and tips remain tightly closed. Cut or snap them just above the soil surface with a clean knife. During peak season, check beds every 1–2 days, as spears can grow rapidly in warm weather. Harvest consistently to encourage continued spear production and prevent plants from diverting energy into early fern growth.
Stop harvesting when spear diameter decreases to about pencil thickness—this signals that the crowns need rest. Allow remaining shoots to grow into tall, feathery ferns that recharge the root system for next year’s harvest.
Flavor & Culinary Notes
UC-157 produces tender, sweet spears with mild grassy undertones and a crisp texture that holds beautifully when roasted, steamed, or grilled. Its slender, uniform stalks are favored for both fresh market and home kitchen use. For peak flavor, cook spears the same day they are harvested.
Try lightly brushing them with olive oil and roasting until tips begin to caramelize, or blanching briefly and finishing with butter, lemon, and salt. UC-157’s clean flavor also shines in cold salads, soups, and pickled preparations.
Handling & Storage
Asparagus is at its best when fresh, but UC-157 holds well with proper storage. Immediately after harvest, stand spears upright in a shallow dish with 1 inch of water or wrap cut ends in a damp paper towel and refrigerate upright in a loose plastic bag.
Avoid sealing tightly—air circulation prevents mold and slime formation. Consume within 3–5 days for peak flavor. For long-term use, blanch spears for 2–3 minutes, cool quickly, and freeze in airtight bags.
Growing & Maintenance
Fertilizing: Feed UC-157 in early spring before spears emerge and again after the harvest period. Use compost or a balanced organic fertilizer (4-4-4 or similar). Avoid high-nitrogen formulas that encourage fern overgrowth at the expense of spear thickness.
Mulching: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of straw, shredded leaves, or compost after the soil warms to retain moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds.
Watering: Provide 1–1.5 inches of water weekly, adjusting for rainfall. Water deeply to strengthen roots but avoid soggy soil, which can cause root rot.
Fern Care: Let ferns grow freely through summer and early fall. They capture sunlight and channel energy into the crown, ensuring abundant future harvests. Cut down dead ferns to soil level only after frost has fully killed them back.
Container & Raised Bed Tips
UC-157 can be grown in raised beds or large containers (at least 18 inches deep). Use a rich, sandy mix with excellent drainage. Because asparagus is perennial, choose a permanent spot where it can stay undisturbed for years. In containers, refresh the top 3 inches of soil with compost each spring and fertilize lightly after each harvest period.
Climate & Heat Adaptation
UC-157 thrives in both temperate and warm climates, performing especially well in regions with long, sunny seasons. In extremely hot areas, apply light afternoon shade cloth during summer to prevent fern scorching and maintain consistent soil moisture.
Soil & Feeding
Asparagus prefers slightly alkaline, sandy loam soils rich in organic matter. If soil is heavy or compacted, mix in coarse sand or aged compost before planting. Feed with potassium- and phosphorus-rich amendments like bone meal or greensand to support strong root growth and spear quality.
Companion Planting
Plant parsley, basil, marigold, or dill near asparagus to deter pests like beetles and aphids. Avoid planting garlic, onions, or leeks nearby, as they can inhibit asparagus growth.
End-of-Season Care
Once ferns turn brown after frost, cut them to the ground and remove debris to prevent overwintering pests. Apply a top dressing of compost or aged manure before winter to nourish the soil and insulate the crowns.
Seed Saving
Allow a few ferns to mature and set seed late in the season. Collect the red berries once they dry and turn brown. Remove the seeds, clean them thoroughly, and dry for 7–10 days before storing in a cool, dry place. UC-157 seeds remain viable for up to 5 years when kept airtight and away from light and humidity.
Common Pests & Problems — Mary Washington Asparagus
Insect Pests
Asparagus Beetles (Common and Spotted)
Symptoms: Chewed spears, notched tips, and egg clusters on stalks and foliage. Larvae feed on ferns, weakening plants for next season.
Controls: Handpick adults and larvae early in the morning. Cut and destroy infested ferns after harvest to break overwintering cycles. Neem oil or insecticidal soap applied weekly can suppress populations. Encourage beneficial insects like lady beetles and parasitic wasps.
Cutworms
Symptoms: Young shoots severed at soil level, especially in early spring.
Controls: Use cardboard collars or biodegradable plant guards around young crowns. Keep beds weed-free, as cutworms shelter in debris. Tilling lightly in fall helps expose pupae to cold.
Aphids
Symptoms: Clusters of tiny green or black insects on fern tips, causing curling and yellowing. Can transmit viruses.
Controls: Spray with a strong stream of water to dislodge, or apply neem oil or insecticidal soap. Promote natural predators like lacewings and hoverflies by planting dill or alyssum nearby.
Slugs and Snails
Symptoms: Ragged holes in young spears and slime trails along stems.
Controls: Water in the morning to reduce nighttime moisture. Use iron phosphate baits or create beer traps. Clear mulch and debris near crowns to limit hiding spots.
Grasshoppers and Crickets
Symptoms: Scalloped or missing leaf tissue on mature ferns.
Controls: Row covers during outbreaks; encourage birds and toads. Maintain diverse planting to reduce mass feeding.
Fungal & Bacterial Diseases
Asparagus Rust (Puccinia asparagi)
Symptoms: Orange or rust-colored pustules on stems and leaves; foliage eventually withers and dies back early.
Prevention: Plant resistant strains like Mary Washington, space for airflow, and avoid overhead watering.
Management: Remove and destroy infected ferns in fall. Copper or sulfur fungicidal sprays can protect new growth in humid climates.
Fusarium Crown and Root Rot (Fusarium oxysporum)
Symptoms: Weak or stunted plants, yellowing ferns, and rotting crowns with reddish-brown discoloration.
Prevention: Rotate crops—avoid replanting asparagus in the same soil for at least 10 years. Maintain balanced nutrition and good drainage.
Management: Remove affected plants. Improve soil health with compost and microbial inoculants before replanting elsewhere.
Phytophthora Root Rot
Symptoms: Sudden wilt, blackened root tissue, and poor spear emergence in soggy soils.
Prevention: Raised beds and well-draining sandy loam are key. Avoid overwatering or compacted soil.
Management: Rogue infected crowns and enhance drainage with coarse sand or organic matter.
Cercospora Leaf Spot
Symptoms: Small tan spots with purple halos on fern foliage, progressing to premature dieback.
Management: Remove infected debris, increase spacing for airflow, and rotate crops.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Poor Spear Emergence
Cause: Cold soil, crown rot, or overcrowding.
Fix: Maintain soil temperature above 60°F for spring growth, divide old crowns every 10–15 years, and replant in refreshed soil.
Thin or Spindly Spears
Cause: Overharvesting, under-fertilization, or insufficient rest period for ferns.
Fix: Cease cutting when spear diameter narrows to pencil width. Feed with compost and allow ferns to fully mature to replenish crown strength.
Deformed Spears
Cause: Frost injury or insect feeding, especially from beetles.
Fix: Protect with row covers in early spring; manage pests proactively.
Weed Competition
Effect: Weeds rob nutrients and water from deep roots, reducing yield.
Control: Apply straw or leaf mulch after spears emerge. Avoid deep cultivation near crowns to prevent root damage.
Nutrient Deficiency
Symptoms: Yellowing ferns or reduced spear vigor.
Fix: Top-dress with compost or use a balanced organic fertilizer rich in phosphorus and potassium after harvest.
Integrated Prevention & Maintenance
Rotate asparagus beds every 10–15 years to prevent soilborne disease buildup.
Remove all dead ferns and plant debris in fall to disrupt pest and fungal life cycles.
Maintain 3–4 feet between rows for airflow and light penetration.
Apply mulch after the soil warms to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Avoid planting in areas where onions, garlic, or other alliums have recently grown, as they can host fungal pathogens harmful to asparagus.
Encourage biodiversity with nearby herbs and flowers to attract beneficial insects that naturally manage pest populations.
Q: What makes UC-157 different from other asparagus varieties?
A: UC-157 was developed at the University of California in the 1970s as a breakthrough in asparagus breeding. It produces uniform, straight spears with excellent tip quality and strong resistance to rust and crown rot. Unlike older heirlooms, it thrives in warmer climates and maintains high yields over extended harvest seasons, making it ideal for both commercial growers and home gardeners in temperate to subtropical regions.
Q: How long does it take UC-157 to produce harvestable spears?
A: Asparagus is a perennial crop that requires patience. From seed, UC-157 typically takes about 3 years to reach full production. You may harvest lightly in the second year, but the third year is when the plant’s crowns are mature enough for consistent spring harvests that can continue for 10–15 years with proper care.
Q: When should I plant UC-157 asparagus seeds?
A: In most regions, seeds are started indoors 12–14 weeks before the last expected frost date. Transplant the young crowns outdoors once all danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed to at least 60°F. In warmer climates, UC-157 can also be direct-sown in early spring or late fall.
Q: What type of soil is best for UC-157 asparagus?
A: UC-157 performs best in sandy loam soil that drains well and warms quickly in spring. The ideal pH range is 6.5–7.5. Avoid heavy clay soils, which hold too much water and may cause root or crown rot. Raised beds or mounded rows can help improve drainage if needed.
Q: How deep should I plant UC-157 asparagus crowns?
A: Plant crowns about 6–8 inches deep in well-prepared trenches. Space plants 12–18 inches apart, with rows 3–4 feet apart to allow for good airflow and spear growth. Gradually fill in the trench as shoots emerge during the growing season.
Q: How much sunlight does UC-157 asparagus need?
A: Full sun is essential. Asparagus requires at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily to develop thick, flavorful spears and strong root systems. In partial shade, spear production will be thinner and less vigorous.
Q: How often should I water UC-157 asparagus?
A: Keep soil evenly moist during establishment. Once mature, water deeply about once per week, supplying 1–1.5 inches of water. Avoid overwatering, which can encourage fungal disease, and mulch to conserve moisture during hot, dry spells.
Q: How do I harvest UC-157 asparagus properly?
A: Harvest spears when they reach 6–8 inches tall and before tips begin to open. Use a sharp knife or snap them just above the soil line. Regular cutting every few days during the harvest period encourages continued spear production. Stop harvesting when spear thickness decreases, allowing remaining stalks to grow into ferns that recharge the roots for the next season.
Q: What is the lifespan of a UC-157 asparagus bed?
A: With good management—proper weeding, fertilization, and pest control—UC-157 asparagus can remain productive for 12–20 years. Avoid disturbing the crowns and maintain light mulch or compost between harvest seasons to encourage soil health and longevity.
Q: Is UC-157 good for container or raised bed growing?
A: While it’s possible, asparagus prefers deep root space and long-term soil stability, so in-ground beds are ideal. If using raised beds, ensure at least 18–24 inches of soil depth and choose a location where the perennial roots can remain undisturbed for years.
Q: Does UC-157 need fertilizer?
A: Yes. Apply compost or an organic balanced fertilizer each spring before spear emergence and again after the harvest season. High-phosphorus and potassium feeds support strong root development, while too much nitrogen can cause excessive fern growth at the expense of spear yield.
Q: Can UC-157 asparagus grow in hot climates?
A: Yes. UC-157 was bred specifically for regions with hot summers and mild winters, such as California’s Central Valley and southern states. It tolerates heat better than older heirlooms while maintaining consistent spear quality.
Q: How can I prevent pests and diseases in UC-157 asparagus?
A: Common threats include asparagus beetles, rust, and root rot. Remove spent ferns in fall to disrupt pest cycles, rotate crops every 10+ years, and use good sanitation practices. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can manage light infestations.
Q: When is the best time to fertilize after the harvest?
A: Feed plants immediately after the harvest season ends, when new fern growth begins. This helps replenish the crowns for the next year’s production.
Q: How do I know when it’s time to stop harvesting?
A: Stop when spears thin to about pencil width or after 6–8 weeks of steady harvest. Allow remaining shoots to mature into ferns so the plant can photosynthesize and restore its energy for the next spring.
Q: How can I encourage thicker spears?
A: Avoid overharvesting young plants, maintain even watering, and apply compost or organic mulch yearly. As the crowns mature, spear thickness naturally increases.
UC-157 emerged from the University of California’s plant breeding program in the early 1970s, marking a turning point in modern asparagus cultivation. Designed specifically for warmer regions, it offered exceptional uniformity, higher yields, and strong resistance to common diseases that limited older varieties. Its ability to thrive in long growing seasons and endure heat made it a top choice for both commercial producers and dedicated home gardeners.
Over time, UC-157 became the global industry standard—grown widely across California, Mexico, Australia, and other temperate-to-subtropical climates. It represents the evolution of asparagus breeding from heritage strains to precision-developed cultivars that combine tradition with science. Today, it remains prized for its dependable performance, fine flavor, and the way it bridges classic gardening values with modern agricultural innovation.
Seed Saving — UC-157 Asparagus
Selecting Plants for Seed Saving
Select mature, vigorous asparagus plants that have reached at least their third year of growth. Choose plants that produce uniform, tender spears with strong disease resistance and healthy fern growth. Since UC-157 is a hybrid variety, its offspring will not grow true to type. Seeds can still be saved for experimentation or breeding, but not for maintaining the original traits.
Harvesting Seeds
Allow several female plants to flower and produce small red seed berries late in the season. Wait until the berries fully ripen and begin to dry on the stem before harvesting. Snip seed clusters and place them in a paper bag to finish drying for several days in a warm, well-ventilated area.
Cleaning Seeds (No Fermentation Required)
Crush dried berries gently between your fingers to release the seeds. Soak in water to separate pulp from seeds—viable seeds will sink. Rinse thoroughly with clean, non-chlorinated water.
Drying Seeds
Spread cleaned seeds on parchment paper or a mesh screen in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Allow to dry completely for 7–10 days, stirring daily to ensure even drying. Avoid heat sources over 95°F (35°C).
Storing Seeds
Once fully dry, store seeds in airtight containers or paper envelopes labeled with the variety name and year saved. Keep in a cool, dark, and dry place (ideally 35–45°F / 1–7°C). Properly stored asparagus seeds remain viable for up to 3 years.
Testing Seed Viability
Before planting, place 10 seeds on a damp paper towel in a plastic bag and keep them at 70–80°F for 10–14 days. Count how many germinate to determine viability.
8–10 sprouts: Excellent
6–7 sprouts: Acceptable, sow heavily
Below 6: Replace with fresh seed
Preventing Cross-Pollination
To maintain a consistent line (if breeding), isolate different asparagus varieties by at least 300 feet. Insects can cross-pollinate flowers easily. For controlled breeding, cover flower heads with mesh bags and manually pollinate selected plants.
Record Keeping and Documentation
Record parent plant performance, seed harvest date, and any observations on spear thickness, disease resistance, and plant vigor. These notes help refine future selections and maintain strong lines if continuing hybrid or open-pollinated breeding work.
Organic Tips for Success
Never use chlorinated water during cleaning.
Compost leftover berry pulp to enrich soil.
Rotate asparagus beds every decade to avoid soil fatigue.
Keep beneficial insects active by planting flowers nearby for pollination support.
Uses and Benefits — UC-157 Asparagus
Culinary Uses
UC-157 asparagus is prized for its crisp, tender spears and mild, nutty flavor that holds well through cooking. Known for consistent spear quality and tight tips, it’s a favorite in both home gardens and commercial production.
General Preparation Methods
Fresh Eating: Young spears can be eaten raw in salads, offering a refreshing crunch and subtle sweetness.
Cooking: Steamed, roasted, grilled, or sautéed, UC-157 retains a tender texture and delicate flavor. Roasting enhances its nutty notes, while steaming preserves more of its nutrients.
Preserving: Asparagus can be blanched and frozen for later use. Pickling is also a popular method for extending the harvest season.
Culinary Pairings: Excellent with butter, olive oil, garlic, lemon, and herbs such as dill, parsley, and thyme. It pairs beautifully with eggs, seafood, and poultry.
Nutritional Benefits
Asparagus offers a wide range of nutrients that contribute to overall well-being without overstating medicinal claims.
Vitamins: A rich source of vitamins K, C, A, and several B vitamins, particularly folate, which supports cell regeneration.
Minerals: Provides potassium, phosphorus, and trace amounts of calcium, magnesium, and iron.
Phytonutrients: Contains antioxidants like rutin, glutathione, and saponins, known to support healthy cells and natural detoxification processes.
Dietary Fiber: Promotes digestion and supports balanced metabolism when included as part of a whole-food diet.
Cooking asparagus lightly—such as steaming or quick sautéing—helps retain its vibrant color and nutrient profile, while roasted or grilled preparations enhance natural flavor depth.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
Asparagus has been valued for centuries as a spring delicacy symbolizing renewal and fertility. UC-157 represents a modern refinement of this tradition—developed for higher yield, disease resistance, and adaptability across climates.
Adaptability: UC-157 grows well in raised beds, open fields, and high tunnels, making it accessible to both commercial and home growers.
Economic and Community Value: Because it’s a reliable and high-yielding hybrid, it’s widely cultivated by market gardeners for its long spear production and high market appeal.
Teaching and Sharing: Asparagus beds can produce for 15–20 years, teaching patience and stewardship in perennial gardening practices.
Pollinator Support: The small, bell-shaped flowers attract bees and beneficial insects.
Soil Enrichment: Asparagus roots help stabilize soil and improve structure over time, making it a valuable crop for long-term soil health.
Biodiversity Preservation: Cultivating hybrid and heirloom asparagus together contributes to ongoing genetic diversity and food system resilience.
UC-157 combines the best of traditional flavor and modern agricultural advancement—an enduring, sustainable crop that rewards careful tending with decades of harvest.
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Alliance Of Native Seedkeepers
Asparagus Seeds - UC-157
$200 USD
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
UC-157 asparagus is the benchmark for dependable, high-yield asparagus production, developed for uniform spear quality and strong adaptability. Its deep green spears, often tipped with a soft violet hue, are straight, tightly budded, and exceptionally tender from tip to base.
This modern variety was bred for early vigor, heat tolerance, and disease resistance—performing well across a range of climates from cool northern zones to warm southern fields. Once established, the crowns produce abundant harvests for 12–15 years, delivering consistently high yields and superior texture with a mild, nutty-sweet flavor.
UC-157 remains a favorite among both commercial growers and home gardeners for its combination of reliability, beauty, and gourmet eating quality—proving that precision breeding and timeless flavor can coexist in perfect balance.
