Asparagus 'Martha Washington'

Do not harvest the first year after planting — wait until the second year. Keep clear of weeds and do not disturb roots. May be “hilled up” with compost or mulch in spring to blanch the spears. Most common pest is the asparagus beetle, which may be discouraged if tomatoes are planted nearby.

Martha Washington is generally regarded as a hardy plant, so this plant will survive close to or on freezing temperatures.

“Martha Washington” is usually planted as year-old crowns.

For optimal germination, soil temperature should be a minimum of 21°C / 70°F.

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

Asparagus is a perennial that should be placed in a section of the garden that is not tilled annually. To plant crowns, dig a trench a foot deep and ten inches wide. Dig in a few inches of good compost or well-rotted manure. Make sure the area is free of weeds and tree roots. Make a ridge of soil and compost in the bottom of the trench. Arrange the crown with roots on both sides of the ridge. Cover with soil but do not fill the trench. Gradually fill the trench with compost and organic matter over the summer.

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

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

1. ‘Asparagus’, in The Encyclopedia of Organic Gardening (Emmaus, PA: Rodale Press, 1978).