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
Mary Washington asparagus is the classic heirloom that defined spring gardens for generations. Known for its straight, uniform spears and refined flavor, this traditional variety produces tender, deep green stalks with slightly purplish tips and a rich, buttery taste when freshly harvested.
Beloved by gardeners since the early 1900s, Mary Washington remains prized for its cold hardiness, longevity, and consistent performance in diverse soils. Once mature, each crown yields abundant spears for many years, making it a true perennial investment in the garden.
With its heritage rooted in early American market gardens, Mary Washington continues to symbolize quality and endurance—offering the same dependable harvests and delicate flavor that made it a standard for home and farm production alike.
Light Requirements: Mary Washington Asparagus thrives in full sun. Select a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, sandy loam soil rich in organic matter. Asparagus does best in soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
Preparing the Soil:
Soil Preparation: Before planting, amend the soil with plenty of compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and drainage. Asparagus beds benefit from being deeply cultivated, as the roots can grow quite deep.
Planting Seeds:
Timing: Start seeds indoors 10-12 weeks before the last expected frost date. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to enhance germination.
Sowing Depth: Sow seeds 1/2 inch deep in seed-starting trays or pots filled with a seed-starting mix.
Transplanting: Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are 10-12 weeks old and the danger of frost has passed. Space the plants 12-18 inches apart in rows 3-4 feet apart.
Watering:
Initial Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged until the seeds germinate and the seedlings establish.
Ongoing Watering: Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods. Asparagus needs about 1-2 inches of water per week, either from rainfall or irrigation.
Fertilization:
Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring as the plants begin to grow. Additional applications of compost or well-rotted manure in the fall can help maintain soil fertility.
Mulching:
Mulch Application: Apply a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw or shredded leaves, around the plants to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Weed Control:
Weed Management: Keep the asparagus bed free of weeds, especially during the first few years of growth. Hand-pull weeds or use shallow cultivation to avoid disturbing the asparagus roots.
Pruning and Harvesting:
Pruning: In the first 2-3 years, allow the plants to grow without harvesting to build up strong root systems. Cut back the ferny foliage to ground level in late fall after it has died back.
Harvesting: Begin harvesting spears in the third year when they are about 6-8 inches tall and as thick as a pencil. Harvest for 2-3 weeks in the third year, then gradually extend the harvest period in subsequent years.
Pest and Disease Management:
Common Pests: Asparagus beetles can be a problem. Hand-pick beetles and larvae or use insecticidal soap if necessary.
Diseases: Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. Avoid planting asparagus in areas where previous crops have had root rot or fusarium wilt.
Long-term Care:
Perennial Care: Asparagus is a perennial crop that can produce for 15-20 years with proper care. Maintain soil fertility with annual applications of compost or well-rotted manure, and keep the bed weed-free.
How to Grow — Mary Washington Asparagus
Soil Preparation
Asparagus is a long-lived perennial that thrives in deep, well-drained sandy loam soil rich in organic matter. Before planting, work compost or aged manure into the top 12 inches of soil to provide lasting fertility. The soil pH should be slightly neutral to alkaline (6.5–7.5). Avoid compacted, clay-heavy areas where water lingers—crown rot and root suffocation can shorten the bed’s life.
Once established, asparagus crowns can remain productive for up to 20 years, so careful soil preparation in the beginning ensures long-term success. Each spring, top-dress with compost or worm castings to renew soil vitality and improve texture.
Watering
Consistent moisture is key to spear quality and longevity. Asparagus roots extend deeply, so water thoroughly and infrequently rather than lightly and often. Aim for 1–1.5 inches of water per week, adjusting for rainfall and heat.
During early growth (spring): Keep soil evenly moist to encourage vigorous spear emergence.
During fern growth (summer): Water deeply every 7–10 days to maintain strong root reserves.
During dormancy (fall/winter): Water only in prolonged dry periods.
Avoid overwatering, which can lead to fungal root rot, especially in dense soils. Mulching around crowns with straw or shredded leaves will help retain moisture and regulate temperature.
Fertilizing
Mary Washington asparagus is a moderate feeder that benefits from two main feedings per year:
Early Spring (before spears emerge): Apply compost or a balanced organic fertilizer (such as 4-4-4) to awaken root activity.
Post-Harvest (after cutting season): Side-dress with compost, aged manure, or a fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium to restore crown strength and fuel fern development.
Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes lush fern growth but reduces spear size and quality. Organic mulch doubles as a slow-release nutrient source throughout the growing season.
Weeding & Mulching
Keep asparagus beds weed-free, especially during the establishment years. Weeds compete for nutrients and moisture, weakening crowns. Hand-weed gently to avoid disturbing shallow feeder roots—avoid deep cultivation near crowns.
After spring harvest, apply 2–3 inches of mulch made from straw, composted leaves, or grass clippings. This suppresses weeds, conserves soil moisture, and prevents soil from crusting or compacting. Replenish mulch annually as it decomposes.
Fern Growth & Seasonal Care
Once harvest ends, allow spears to grow freely into tall, feathery ferns. These ferns are essential—they photosynthesize and store carbohydrates that feed the plant through the next winter.
Summer: Keep ferns green and healthy through regular watering and pest monitoring.
Fall: When ferns yellow and die naturally, cut them to the ground and remove debris to prevent overwintering pests or fungal diseases.
Winter: In cold climates, add a light mulch of compost or straw to insulate crowns from frost.
Do not cut ferns prematurely, as this weakens the plant and reduces next year’s spear yield.
Sun & Temperature
Mary Washington requires full sun (6–8 hours daily) for optimal spear size and sweetness. While hardy in cooler regions, it also performs well in temperate zones with warm springs. Ideal growing temperatures range from 70–85°F (21–29°C) during active growth.
In hotter climates, light afternoon shade can protect ferns from scorching, while consistent moisture helps prevent heat stress.
Airflow & Spacing
Proper spacing is essential to reduce fungal disease and improve spear quality. Keep plants 12–18 inches apart within rows, and space rows 3–4 feet apart for air circulation and ease of access. Good airflow minimizes rust and leaf spot during humid weather.
Pruning & Maintenance
At the end of each growing season:
Cut ferns to ground level after frost kills them completely.
Remove all debris to prevent asparagus beetles and rust from overwintering.
Apply compost or a light mulch to protect crowns through winter.
Every few years, top-dress with fresh compost to rejuvenate soil fertility. In long-lived beds (10+ years old), consider lightly forking compost into the topsoil between rows without disturbing the crowns.
Pest & Disease Prevention
Regular inspection keeps asparagus healthy for decades.
Asparagus Beetles: Handpick adults and larvae; remove infested ferns post-season.
Aphids: Rinse off with water or treat with neem oil.
Rust & Root Rot: Maintain dry foliage by watering at soil level, and rotate crops if disease appears.
Beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings naturally reduce pest populations when nearby companion plants such as dill, parsley, and marigold are included.
End-of-Season Renewal
After fall cleanup, apply a layer of compost or aged manure over the bed. This provides slow-release nutrition through winter and improves structure for the following spring. Avoid turning or tilling the soil near crowns—leave them undisturbed.
Longevity & Regeneration
Mary Washington asparagus rewards patience and care. With steady watering, feeding, and annual maintenance, crowns become stronger each year, yielding thicker, more flavorful spears. Mature beds can produce abundantly for 15–20 years, a true testament to the value of well-prepared soil and consistent stewardship.
Additional Tips — Mary Washington Asparagus
Harvesting
Mary Washington asparagus is a true perennial reward for patient gardeners. Begin harvesting lightly in the third year after planting to allow crowns to fully establish. Pick spears when they reach 6–8 inches tall and tips are still firm and tightly closed. Use a sharp knife to cut just above the soil line or snap by hand.
Check beds daily in spring, as spears can grow several inches overnight in warm weather. Continue harvesting for 6–8 weeks, then stop when spears become noticeably thinner. Allow remaining shoots to grow into ferns, which will feed the crowns for next season’s harvest.
Flavor & Culinary Notes
Mary Washington produces rich, classic asparagus flavor—earthy, nutty, and slightly sweet with a tender yet meaty texture. Its flavor intensifies when roasted or grilled but remains delicate enough for fresh steaming or light sautéing.
Try pairing freshly cut spears with butter, lemon, sea salt, and herbs, or roast with olive oil and garlic for deeper sweetness. It’s also excellent in soups, omelets, or pickled as a seasonal delicacy.
Handling & Storage
After harvest, trim the ends and stand spears upright in a shallow container with 1 inch of water, or wrap the cut ends in a damp cloth and refrigerate in a breathable plastic bag. Do not seal tightly—airflow prevents mold. Consume within 3–5 days for best texture and flavor.
For longer storage, blanch spears for 2–3 minutes, plunge into ice water, pat dry, and freeze in airtight containers. Frozen asparagus maintains its tenderness and color when cooked directly from the freezer.
Growing & Maintenance
Fertilizing: Feed early in spring before shoots emerge using compost or a balanced organic fertilizer. After harvest, apply compost or aged manure to rebuild nutrients for next year. Avoid heavy nitrogen fertilizers, which cause excessive fern growth at the expense of spear thickness.
Mulching: Apply 2–3 inches of straw, shredded leaves, or grass clippings once the soil warms. Mulch conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and protects crowns from temperature extremes.
Watering: Provide deep, consistent watering—about 1–1.5 inches weekly. Water early in the day to minimize fungal issues. Overwatering or soggy soil can lead to crown rot.
Fern Care: After the harvest season, let ferns grow freely through summer to capture sunlight and strengthen root systems. Cut back the dry, brown ferns only after frost has fully killed them. Removing them early can weaken next year’s yield.
Container & Raised Bed Tips
Mary Washington performs well in raised beds where soil drains freely and warms quickly. For containers, use at least 18 inches of depth and fill with a rich loamy mix containing compost and sand. Because asparagus is perennial, plan for a permanent location and refresh the top layer of soil with compost each spring.
Soil & Climate
This variety adapts to a range of climates but thrives best in temperate regions with cool winters and warm springs. Sandy loam soil is ideal, with a pH between 6.5–7.5. Avoid compacted or poorly drained sites, as standing water leads to root decay. In colder areas, mulch crowns heavily before winter to protect from freeze damage.
Feeding & Seasonal Care
Top-dress with compost or a phosphorus-rich fertilizer (such as bone meal) after harvest. This encourages crown strength and spear thickness. Maintain a light mulch year-round to moderate soil temperature and prevent weed competition.
Pest Prevention
Inspect regularly for asparagus beetles, removing adults and eggs by hand. Interplanting herbs like basil, parsley, or dill helps deter pests while attracting beneficial predators. After frost, remove all dead ferns to eliminate overwintering beetles.
Companion Planting
Pair asparagus with tomatoes, parsley, basil, or marigold for mutual pest resistance and healthy soil biodiversity. Avoid planting close to garlic, onions, or leeks, which can stunt asparagus growth.
End-of-Season Care
In late fall or early winter, once ferns have browned, cut them to ground level and remove debris to prevent rust and beetle carryover. Spread a layer of compost or aged manure to nourish the bed and mulch lightly for insulation.
Seed Saving
Allow some ferns to mature and produce red berries at season’s end. Collect these once they dry and turn brown. Remove and clean the seeds, dry them for about a week, and store them in an airtight jar in a cool, dark place. Seeds remain viable for 3–5 years under proper storage.
Common Pests & Problems — Asparagus UC-157
Insect Pests
Asparagus Beetles (Common and Spotted)
Symptoms: Spear tips chewed or bent into hooks; fern foliage skeletonized by larvae feeding. Egg clusters appear on stalks as small black dots. Infestations weaken crowns, reducing next year’s yield.
Controls: Handpick adult beetles and larvae daily during spring. After the harvest, cut and compost spent ferns to eliminate overwintering habitat. Neem oil or insecticidal soap works well for recurring infestations. Encourage beneficial predators like ladybugs, soldier beetles, and small wasps.
Cutworms
Symptoms: Severed young spears and drooping shoots, typically overnight.
Controls: Use collars made of cardboard or thin plastic around crowns. Maintain clean, weed-free beds, and till lightly in fall to expose larvae to cold and predators.
Aphids
Symptoms: Clusters of tiny, soft-bodied insects on young fern growth; curled, sticky, or yellowing foliage from honeydew residue.
Controls: Spray plants with a strong stream of water to dislodge colonies. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5–7 days if infestations persist. Encourage lacewings, hoverflies, and lady beetles.
Thrips
Symptoms: Silvery streaks or patches on fern foliage; stunted or discolored new shoots.
Controls: Maintain moisture and reduce dust with light watering. Apply spinosad or insecticidal soap as needed. Remove nearby weeds that shelter thrips populations.
Slugs & Snails
Symptoms: Ragged spear tips and mucous trails, especially in cool, damp weather.
Controls: Water in the morning rather than evening, clear mulch and debris from base of plants, and use iron phosphate baits or beer traps to manage populations organically.
Fungal & Bacterial Diseases
Fusarium Crown & Root Rot
Symptoms: Decline in vigor, yellowing ferns, reduced spear production, and discolored roots or crowns.
Prevention: Rotate asparagus beds after 10–12 years, avoid replanting where asparagus or solanaceous crops have grown. Ensure sandy, well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Management: Remove and destroy infected crowns; improve soil with compost and beneficial mycorrhizae to restore microbial balance.
Asparagus Rust (Puccinia asparagi)
Symptoms: Orange-brown pustules on stems and foliage that eventually turn black as spores mature. In severe cases, plants defoliate early.
Prevention: UC-157 is naturally rust-resistant, but disease can still occur in humid conditions. Provide wide spacing for airflow and avoid overhead irrigation.
Management: Remove diseased ferns and debris in fall. Apply organic sulfur or copper sprays preventatively in high-humidity regions.
Phytophthora Root Rot
Symptoms: Sudden wilting, blackened stems near the base, poor spear emergence in low, soggy soil.
Prevention: Ensure raised beds, sandy loam soil, and excellent drainage. Avoid compacted or saturated areas.
Management: Destroy affected crowns and do not replant in the same location.
Cercospora Leaf Spot
Symptoms: Gray or tan lesions with purple margins on fern foliage. Can cause premature dieback in wet seasons.
Controls: Prune affected ferns and remove debris after harvest. Use drip irrigation instead of overhead watering.
Physiological & Environmental Issues
Thin or Weak Spears
Cause: Overharvesting, nutrient depletion, or lack of rest period for ferns.
Fix: Cease harvesting once spears thin to pencil width. Fertilize with compost or well-balanced organic fertilizer after harvest, and allow full fern growth each summer.
Poor Spear Emergence
Cause: Cold soil, crown rot, or competition from weeds.
Fix: Warm soil to above 60°F, refresh old beds, and mulch to suppress weeds while retaining moisture.
Deformed Spears
Cause: Frost damage or asparagus beetle feeding.
Fix: Protect emerging shoots with row covers during cold snaps and control beetles early in spring.
Weed Competition
Effect: Crowns suffer from nutrient and moisture loss due to encroaching grasses and broadleaf weeds.
Control: Apply straw or shredded leaf mulch once soil warms. Avoid cultivating deeply around crowns to prevent damage.
Nutrient Deficiency
Symptoms: Yellowing or browning fern tips, sluggish regrowth.
Fix: Top-dress annually with compost or use an organic fertilizer high in potassium and phosphorus to strengthen roots and enhance spear thickness.
Integrated Prevention & Management
Rotate asparagus beds after long-term use to prevent soil fatigue and disease buildup.
Maintain 3–4 feet between rows to improve sunlight exposure and airflow.
Cut and remove all dead ferns after frost each year to disrupt pest and disease life cycles.
Water at soil level in early morning to reduce fungal risk.
Use companion plants like parsley, basil, and marigold nearby to deter beetles and aphids naturally.
Feed with compost or seaweed emulsion after the harvest period to rebuild crown reserves.
With consistent care and proper sanitation, UC-157 asparagus rewards growers with decades of vigorous, rust-resistant harvests, proving that good soil health and balanced stewardship are the true keys to its long-term success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) — Mary Washington Asparagus
Q: What makes Mary Washington asparagus special?
A: Mary Washington is a classic heirloom variety introduced in 1919 that set the standard for American asparagus cultivation. It’s known for its dependable yields, rust resistance, and tender spears with rich, traditional flavor. Generations of gardeners have trusted this variety for its longevity—well-established beds can produce for 15–20 years with proper care.
Q: How long does it take Mary Washington asparagus to produce a harvest?
A: As a perennial crop, patience is key. From seed, allow three growing seasons before full harvest. You can take a light picking in the second year, but waiting until the third ensures strong, long-lived crowns that continue producing for many years.
Q: When is the best time to plant Mary Washington asparagus?
A: Plant in early spring once soil temperatures reach at least 60°F. In warmer climates, it can also be planted in fall. Many gardeners start seeds indoors 10–14 weeks before the last frost, then transplant the young crowns outdoors once frost danger has passed.
Q: What soil type does Mary Washington asparagus prefer?
A: It thrives in sandy loam soil with excellent drainage. Soil pH should range between 6.5 and 7.5. Heavy or waterlogged soils should be amended with compost and sand to prevent crown rot and ensure deep root development.
Q: How deep and far apart should crowns be planted?
A: Plant crowns 6–8 inches deep in trenches spaced 12–18 inches apart within rows, with 3–4 feet between rows. Cover lightly at first, gradually filling in the trench as shoots emerge throughout the growing season.
Q: How much sunlight does Mary Washington asparagus need?
A: Full sun—at least 6–8 hours per day—is crucial for healthy spear growth. Insufficient sunlight leads to thin, weak shoots and reduced harvest yields.
Q: How should I water my asparagus bed?
A: Keep soil evenly moist but never soggy. Water deeply once or twice weekly, depending on weather, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Mulching with straw or shredded leaves helps retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Q: How do I harvest Mary Washington asparagus?
A: Harvest spears when they are 6–8 inches tall and tips are still tight. Cut or snap spears just above the soil surface. Continue harvesting every few days during spring for 6–8 weeks, then allow new shoots to grow into ferns to restore energy to the crowns.
Q: When should I stop harvesting for the season?
A: Stop once spear thickness declines to pencil size or after about two months of steady picking. Allow the remaining shoots to develop into tall, feathery ferns that feed the plant through photosynthesis and ensure next year’s harvest.
Q: How long will a Mary Washington asparagus bed remain productive?
A: With proper care, a bed can remain productive for 15–20 years. Regular fertilization, weed control, and avoidance of crown disturbance will keep plants vigorous and long-lived.
Q: Can Mary Washington asparagus be grown in raised beds or containers?
A: Yes, raised beds are excellent because they improve drainage and soil warmth. Containers must be deep—at least 18 inches—with rich, loamy soil. Since asparagus is perennial, plan for permanent placement or long-term soil renewal.
Q: Does Mary Washington asparagus need fertilizer?
A: Apply compost or a balanced organic fertilizer in early spring before spears emerge, and again after the harvest season to nourish root reserves. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which promotes fern growth at the expense of spear thickness.
Q: Is Mary Washington asparagus disease-resistant?
A: It was originally bred for resistance to rust, one of the most common asparagus diseases. While it’s less prone to fungal issues, good garden hygiene—removing spent ferns in fall and ensuring airflow—further reduces risk.
Q: What pests should I watch out for?
A: The asparagus beetle is the main pest threat. Remove adult beetles and larvae by hand or use neem oil as an organic control. Maintain clean beds and remove plant debris to break overwintering cycles.
Q: How can I improve spear thickness and yield?
A: Give plants a full rest period after harvest, apply compost annually, and mulch to conserve moisture. Avoid harvesting during the first two years of establishment to let crowns develop strength and depth.
Q: Can I let some spears go to seed?
A: Yes. Allowing a few spears to mature and form red berries helps maintain genetic diversity if saving seed. However, female plants may produce slightly fewer harvestable spears than all-male hybrids, which is normal for this variety.
Q: Why do my spears look thin or spindly?
A: Thin spears often result from overharvesting or undernourished crowns. Cease harvesting early, feed with compost, and allow ferns to fully mature—next season’s growth will be stronger and thicker.
Q: What’s the difference between Mary Washington and modern hybrids?
A: While modern hybrids like UC-157 are bred for higher yields and warmer climates, Mary Washington remains the gold standard of traditional flavor, reliability, and cold-hardiness. It’s the preferred choice for gardeners seeking heritage quality and time-proven performance.
Mary Washington is a beloved heirloom that defined asparagus growing in America throughout much of the 20th century. Bred and released in 1919 by J.B. Norton of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, it was selected from older Washington lines for improved rust resistance, uniform spear size, and enduring vigor. Its success transformed asparagus from a finicky crop into a dependable garden staple, allowing families to enjoy fresh harvests for a decade or more from a single planting.
The variety’s name honors the Washington lineage of asparagus and its reputation for reliability. Generations of home gardeners and small farmers have continued to grow Mary Washington for its tender, richly flavored spears and remarkable adaptability to diverse soils and climates. Even today, it stands as the benchmark of heirloom asparagus—an enduring symbol of American horticultural heritage, resilience, and the quiet satisfaction of long-term cultivation.
Seed Saving — Mary Washington Asparagus
Selecting Plants for Seed Saving
Choose healthy, rust-resistant female plants with thick, straight spears and strong fern development. As Mary Washington is an open-pollinated heirloom, its seeds reproduce true to type, making it ideal for home seed saving. Select from 6–10 of your best plants for strong genetic diversity.
Harvesting Seeds
Allow the ferns to mature and flower. Once small red berries form and ripen, wait until they begin drying slightly on the stem before collecting. Harvest berry clusters and air dry for several days in a paper bag.
Cleaning Seeds
Crush berries gently to release seeds. Soak in water to separate the pulp—viable seeds sink to the bottom. Rinse several times until clean, and strain through a fine mesh or cheesecloth.
Drying Seeds
Spread cleaned seeds in a single layer on parchment paper or a mesh tray in a warm, shaded, well-ventilated area. Stir daily and allow to dry 10–14 days until seeds are hard and brittle.
Storing Seeds
Store fully dried seeds in labeled paper envelopes or airtight jars. Keep in a cool, dark, dry space (ideally 35–45°F / 1–7°C). With good storage, seeds stay viable for 3–5 years.
Testing Seed Viability
Test 10 seeds by placing them on a damp paper towel sealed in a plastic bag. Keep them warm (70–80°F) for 10–14 days. Evaluate germination rates to ensure quality.
Preventing Cross-Pollination
To preserve true heirloom genetics, isolate from other asparagus varieties by 300 feet or bag blossoms to prevent insect cross-pollination. Save seed from several plants each year to maintain vigor and local adaptation.
Record Keeping and Documentation
Document harvest date, parent plant performance, and environmental conditions. Keep notes on plant traits such as spear thickness, rust resistance, and yield consistency.
Organic Tips for Success
Avoid synthetic seed treatments; instead, rinse in chamomile tea to deter fungal spores.
Compost spent fern growth for nutrient recycling.
Rotate beds every 8–10 years to prevent soil nutrient depletion.
Encourage beneficial insects for pollination by maintaining native flowering plants nearby.
Uses and Benefits — Mary Washington Asparagus
Culinary Uses
Mary Washington asparagus is a timeless heirloom, valued for its tender green spears, balanced flavor, and classic asparagus aroma that has delighted growers and cooks for over a century. Its flavor is full yet refined—earthy, mildly sweet, and slightly grassy when freshly picked.
General Preparation Methods
Fresh Eating: Young spears can be eaten raw or lightly blanched for a crisp, refreshing addition to salads and charcuterie plates.
Cooking: Ideal for steaming, roasting, grilling, or stir-frying. Light cooking preserves its sweetness and color, while roasting draws out nutty, caramelized undertones.
Preserving: Can be blanched and frozen for long-term storage or pickled to extend the season.
Culinary Pairings: Pairs beautifully with lemon, butter, garlic, and olive oil. Complements eggs, poultry, fish, and pasta dishes. Often served with hollandaise sauce or shaved parmesan for traditional preparations.
Nutritional Benefits
Mary Washington asparagus is nutrient-rich yet low in calories, making it a wholesome and satisfying spring vegetable.
Vitamins: High in vitamin K for bone support, vitamin C for immune function, and folate for cellular health.
Minerals: Provides potassium, iron, and trace elements that support hydration and metabolic balance.
Phytonutrients: Contains natural antioxidants such as glutathione and rutin, which support healthy aging and cell repair.
Dietary Fiber: Promotes digestion and satiety while contributing to balanced gut health.
Light steaming or roasting retains most nutrients while enhancing natural sweetness, making asparagus a versatile addition to any healthy diet.
Cultural and Practical Benefits
Mary Washington holds a special place in American agricultural history. Developed in the early 1900s and officially released in 1919, it became one of the first standardized asparagus varieties in the United States. Its durability and flavor helped reestablish asparagus as a home garden staple following the spread of asparagus rust disease.
Adaptability: Performs exceptionally well in a variety of soils, thriving in both small gardens and larger perennial beds. Once established, a patch can produce reliable harvests for 15–20 years.
Economic and Community Value: This heirloom remains popular among small farmers and local markets for its traditional quality and dependable yields.
Seed Stewardship: Being open-pollinated, Mary Washington allows growers to save seed generation after generation, encouraging local adaptation and preservation of this heritage variety.
Environmental and Garden Benefits
Perennial Sustainability: A long-lived crop that stabilizes soil, supports carbon sequestration, and minimizes annual tilling.
Pollinator Attraction: The small yellow-green flowers provide early-season forage for bees and beneficial insects.
Soil Regeneration: Asparagus roots improve soil aeration and structure over time, supporting a balanced soil ecosystem.
Biodiversity Preservation: By cultivating heirlooms like Mary Washington, growers help maintain valuable genetic diversity in the global seed pool.
Mary Washington stands as a living link between past and present—an enduring heirloom that continues to nourish both the land and those who tend it. Its combination of taste, resilience, and heritage makes it an essential perennial for any garden rooted in tradition.
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Alliance Of Native Seedkeepers
Asparagus Seeds - Mary Washington Asparagus
$200 USD
Unit price /
Unavailable
Description
Mary Washington asparagus is the classic heirloom that defined spring gardens for generations. Known for its straight, uniform spears and refined flavor, this traditional variety produces tender, deep green stalks with slightly purplish tips and a rich, buttery taste when freshly harvested.
Beloved by gardeners since the early 1900s, Mary Washington remains prized for its cold hardiness, longevity, and consistent performance in diverse soils. Once mature, each crown yields abundant spears for many years, making it a true perennial investment in the garden.
With its heritage rooted in early American market gardens, Mary Washington continues to symbolize quality and endurance—offering the same dependable harvests and delicate flavor that made it a standard for home and farm production alike.
