Mary Washington Asparagus, Heirloom Seeds

Mary Washington Asparagus, Heirloom Seeds — The Best Open-Pollinated Asparagus to Grow From Seed, Productive for 15–20+ Years

Mary Washington (Asparagus officinalis) is considered the best open-pollinated asparagus variety to grow from seed — marvelously productive, rust-tolerant, and producing the sweetest, most tender, and most succulent shoots available. Green spears with beautiful purple tips emerge year after year from an established crown. A long-lived perennial that rewards patience — once established, a well-tended asparagus bed will produce for 15–20 years or more. Strongly recommended for home gardens, raised beds, and box gardens.

Why Grow Mary Washington?

• Best open-pollinated asparagus from seed — the gold standard for home gardeners
• Sweetest, most tender, most succulent shoots — outstanding eating quality
• Rust-tolerant — reliable and disease-resistant
• Green spears with purple tips — beautiful and productive
• Long-lived perennial — produces for 15–20+ years once established
• Open-pollinated heirloom — save seed year after year

Growing Notes

Start indoors 12–14 weeks before last frost, or direct sow outdoors in early spring. Sow seeds ½ inch deep in fertile, well-draining soil. Transplant crowns to a permanent bed — asparagus does not like to be moved. Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows 4–5 feet apart in full sun. Do not harvest the first 2 years — allow crowns to establish. In year 3, harvest lightly. By year 4+, harvest freely for 6–8 weeks each spring. Cut near the crown when harvesting — never pull. Do not over-harvest. Weed by hand to avoid damaging emerging shoots. Place harvested spears in water immediately to retain moisture.

Packed and shipped by Box Garden Seeds LLC — heirloom seeds grown without GMOs, selected for flavor, resilience, and your garden’s success.