ASPARAGUS Seeds, Mary Washington

Mary Washington Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis 'Mary Washington') is an heirloom, open-pollinated perennial grown for its tender, flavorful spears. A reliable, rust-resistant classic, it produces a dependable harvest each spring for many years once established.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Asparagus officinalis 'Mary Washington'
• Type: Heirloom, open-pollinated perennial
• Mature height: 4 to 5 feet (ferns)
• Sun: Full sun (6 to 8 hours)
• Soil: Well-drained, organic-rich, pH 6.0 to 7.0

Best for

• Steamed, grilled, or roasted spears
• Long-lived perennial beds
• Spring harvests year after year
• Edible landscape borders

How to grow

Start from seed indoors or sow directly in a permanent, well-drained bed in full sun. Plant in deep, rich soil and be patient, as harvest begins lightly in the second or third year. Keep the bed weed-free and well-fed, and let the ferns grow through summer to feed the crown for future seasons.

Flavor profile

Sweet, grassy, and tender with the classic asparagus flavor at its best when spears are harvested young and cooked simply.

About 99Heirlooms

99Heirlooms is a seed company devoted to heirloom and open-pollinated varieties, giving home gardeners dependable seeds with the character and heritage of generations past.

Sold by 99Heirlooms.com, based in Saint Paul, Minnesota.