Asparagus Seeds - Mary Washington
(Asparagus officinalis) Zones 3-9. Long living perennial; 15 - 20 years.
Mary Washington Heirloom Asparagus produces dark green shoots with a purple tinge near the top. Asparagus is harvested in late spring.
It takes three years for asparagus to establish itself. Please don't pick before then! Asparagus takes a while to establish a root system & picking before hand can weaken your plants.
Asparagus is usually lightly steamed, or sautéed with butter, but we love it raw! Eaten raw, the flavour is similar to freshly picked snap peas.
**Asparagus berries are inedible, but are magnificent in Autumn flower arrangements.**
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Sun Requirements: Best in Full Sun
Soil Preference: Rich, well draining garden soil (balanced pH). All soil amendments should be made before planting, as Asparagus is a deep rooted perennial.
When to Plant: Plant seeds indoors about 12 weeks before the last expected frost. Plant outside after all risk of frost has passed, hardening off first.
How to Plant: Dig an 8 - 10 inch deep trench & plant young Asparagus plants at the bottom. Back-fill this trench as they grow during the first season & keep area weed-free. Mulch with straw in the Fall to protect against the cold.
When to Harvest: It takes three years for asparagus to establish itself. Please don't pick before then! Asparagus takes a while to establish a root system & picking before hand can weaken your plants.
How to Harvest: Snap off Asparagus spears where they "want" to break naturally. Below this point, they will likely be woody.
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