Asparagus 'Mary Washington'

This variety throws male and female plants – it is best to plant and transplant only the fatter male plants.

Plant asparagus crowns in a trench 8 – 10 inches deep and 18 – 20 inches wide. Spread the roots of the crowns out on the bottom of the trench. Space plants about 12 – 15 inches apart and cover with a couple of inches of soil and water.²

Top dress annually with compost or mulch in early spring or in the fall. After fronds have died back and cut to the ground, keep the patch free of competing weeds. The patch needs to be cut each year before new growth starts. This can be done in spring or fall. Some gardeners prefer to leave the foliage as a winter mulch.²

Enjoys a full sun position in your garden and remember to water moderately. Mary Washington is generally regarded as a hardy plant, so it can be safe to leave outdoors for the majority of winter (although if in doubt, using a row cover is often a good idea).

For optimal germination, soil temperature should be a minimum of 18°C / 64°F.

By our calculations, you should look at sowing Mary Washington about 90 days before your last frost date.

Mary Washington is hardy, so ensure you wait until all danger of frost has passed in your area before considering planting outside.

By our calculations, you should look at planting out Mary Washington about 0 days after your last frost date.

This variety tends to mature and be ready for harvest in mid spring.

Named after Mary Ball Washington, George Washington’s mother.

This heirloom variety has gone out of favor for varieties that contain all male plants, which have larger and more abundant stems.

Asparagus

¹ Tasteful Garden

² gardening.about.com/od/plantprofil2/p/AsparagusProfil.htm