Mary Washington asparagus: How to Grow, Harvest, Fertilize, and Use Mary Washington asparagus

My Journey Growing Mary Washington Asparagus

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As I sit in my garden, surrounded by the tender shoots of my prized Mary Washington asparagus, I am reminded of the joy and satisfaction that comes from growing this delicious and iconic vegetable. In this article, I will share with you my experience of growing Mary Washington asparagus from seed to harvest, and provide valuable tips and insights for fellow gardeners looking to try their hand at growing this beloved asparagus variety.

A Brief History of Mary Washington Asparagus

Mary Washington asparagus (Asparagus officinalis 'Mary Washington') is a heritage variety of asparagus that originated in the United States in the early 20th century. It is named after Mary Washington, the wife of George Washington, who is said to have introduced the variety to the United States. This variety of asparagus is known for its thick, tender spears and rich, nutty flavor, making it a favorite among asparagus enthusiasts.

Preparing the Soil

Before I can plant my Mary Washington asparagus, I need to prepare the soil. Asparagus prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. To achieve this, I add compost and manure to my soil, which helps to improve its structure and fertility.

Step 1: Test Your Soil

Before adding any amendments to your soil, it's essential to test its pH and nutrient levels. You can purchase a soil testing kit at most gardening stores or online.

Step 2: Add Compost and Manure

Compost and manure are excellent natural amendments that will improve the fertility and structure of your soil. I mix 2-3 inches of compost and manure into the top 6-8 inches of soil.

Step 3: Till the Soil

Once your soil is amended, it's time to till it to a depth of about 8-10 inches. This will help to loosen the soil and prepare it for planting.

Planting the Seeds

Now that my soil is prepared, it's time to plant my Mary Washington asparagus seeds. I typically plant them in the spring, when the soil has warmed up to at least 60°F (15°C).

Step 1: Sow the Seeds

I sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart in the tilled soil. Make sure to space the plants far enough apart, as they will grow quite large.

Step 2: Water the Seeds

Once the seeds are sown, I water them thoroughly to settle the soil around the seeds. Keep the soil consistently moist during the first few weeks after planting.

Caring for the Seedlings

After the seeds have germinated, I need to provide them with the right conditions to grow and thrive.

Step 1: Provide Full Sun

Asparagus needs full sun to grow well, so I make sure to place my seedlings in a location that receives direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day.

Step 2: Water Regularly

Asparagus needs consistent moisture to grow well. I water my seedlings regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Step 3: Fertilize

Once my seedlings are about 6 inches tall, I start fertilizing them with a balanced fertilizer. I also add a high-nitrogen fertilizer to promote spear growth.

Harvesting the Asparagus

The moment of truth has finally arrived - it's time to harvest my Mary Washington asparagus!

Step 1: Wait for the Right Time

I only harvest my asparagus when the spears are at least 6-8 inches tall. I also make sure to check the weather forecast, as I don't want to harvest during a rainstorm.

Step 2: Cut the Spears

To harvest my asparagus, I cut the spears at the base, just above the node where the spear meets the crown. This will encourage the plant to produce more spears.

Step 3: Enjoy Your Harvest!

There's nothing quite like biting into a fresh, delicious spear of Mary Washington asparagus. It's a taste of springtime in every bite, and I feel so grateful to be able to enjoy this delicious vegetable in my own backyard.

Conclusion

Growing Mary Washington asparagus is a rewarding experience that requires patience, dedication, and the right conditions. By following these steps and tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, tender spears in your own backyard. Happy gardening!