Mary Washington Asparagus salad on a black plate on a white background.
An asparagus salad made with Marry Washington Asparagus on a white background.
Chopped and whole Mary Washington Asparagus with dip on an asparagus plate.
Mary Washington Asparagus In a black and white bowl on a gold background.
Cut and whole Mary Washington Asparagus being prepared for cooking.
Mary Washington Asparagus salad on a black plate on a white background.
An asparagus salad made with Marry Washington Asparagus on a white background.
Chopped and whole Mary Washington Asparagus with dip on an asparagus plate.
Mary Washington Asparagus In a black and white bowl on a gold background.
Cut and whole Mary Washington Asparagus being prepared for cooking.

Asparagus Seeds,
Mary Washington

4.518 Reviews#AS101 · 100 seeds
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Description

(Asparagus officinalis). Deep green spears rise with strength and reliability in this classic American heirloom, developed in the early 1900s to resist devastating asparagus rust. Bred by J.B. Norton in collaboration with USDA researchers and Massachusetts growers, it quickly became a breakthrough success. Introduced in 1919, it combines vigorous growth with dependable yields and excellent flavor. For over a century, it has remained a trusted favorite in both home gardens and commercial fields, offering resilience, productivity, and timeless appeal.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Asparagus officinalis
Life Cycle
Perennial in zones 3–8
Sun Requirement
Full sun
Days to Germinate
10–21
Days to Maturity
730
Planting Depth
½ in. (seeds); 6–8 in. (crowns)
Plant Spacing
12–18 in.
Ideal Temperature
60–85°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

Growing Guide

When to Grow

Start seeds indoors 10 to 12 weeks before your last frost, or sow directly in late spring once the soil has warmed to 70 to 75 F. Establishing from seed takes time, but results in strong, productive plants. If you're not sure how to find your first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds ½ inch deep in seed trays or outdoor beds. Transplant after hardening off when seedlings are 10 to 12 weeks old. Plant crowns or seedlings in trenches 6 to 8 inches deep, spaced 12 to 18 inches apart in rows.

How to Grow

Water regularly during establishment and keep beds weed-free. Do not harvest spears the first year; allow ferns to grow and build root strength. In year two, harvest lightly, and by year three, harvest fully for 6 to 8 weeks.

How to Save Seeds

  • Allow selected ferns to flower and develop berries in year two or beyond
  • Harvest red berries when fully ripe in late summer or fall
  • Remove seeds from pulp and rinse clean
  • Dry seeds thoroughly on a screen or paper towel
  • Store in a cool, dry, airtight container away from direct light

FAQ

Can I harvest Mary Washington asparagus the first year?

No, harvesting too early can weaken young plants. Seed-grown asparagus needs two full seasons with the ferns left undisturbed to build a strong root system; take only a light harvest of 2 to 3 weeks of spears in the third year, and cut a full season after that. That patience is what lets a bed produce reliable harvests for decades.

Is Mary Washington asparagus good for cold climates?

Yes, this variety is particularly well-suited to colder regions. Its proven hardiness allows it to overwinter reliably, coming back strong each spring with flavorful, tender spears.

What makes Mary Washington different from modern hybrids?

Mary Washington is an open-pollinated heirloom, known for its reliability and traditional flavor. While not as high-yielding as modern hybrids, it offers better seed-saving potential and strong adaptability.

Browse our full range of asparagus seeds.

Customer reviews

4.5 / 5 18 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Near-total germination: Nearly every seed sprouts; a heat mat speeds it up.

  • Vigorous, hardy plants: Tough ferns shrug off neglect, cold and poor beds.

  • Sweet fresh spears: Sweet, delicious spears, far better than store-bought.

  • Spreads on its own: Let it go to seed and the patch multiplies.

  • Heads up: Plan on two to three years before a real harvest.

More to grow!

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