Asparagus originated near the Mediterranean Sea and was considered a delicacy by the ancient Greeks. Mary Washington Asparagus is easily grown from seed. Mary Washington is a female variety of Asparagus. It produces wonderful tasting spears. In the fall asparagus produces fern like foliage, very pretty, and red berries that contain the seed for future plantings.
Growing Asparagus from seed is much more economical as to purchasing crowns, though it takes patience as they fully mature in three years. Tasty spears are dark green with purple color at the tips. A perennial vegetable that you will enjoy for years to come. Heavy yields.
~ Sowing & Growing ~
*patience is a must, asparagus can take up to two months to germinate.
Sowing indoors: Soak asparagus seeds in warm water for 24-48 hours to weaken the hard outer layer, then plant 1/4" deep and 2" apart in a temporary nursery bed. Keep the temperature at 70-80 degrees F, and germination should begin in 10-14 days. Although seeds may take up to two months to germinate.
About 10-12 weeks after planting, transplant the seedlings outdoors. Digging a trench is not necessary; simply place the plants 12" apart in rows 3-4' apart. Sandy, well drained soil, and full sun are ideal. Keep the soil moist, and apply mulch to discourage weeds. Asparagus greatly benefits from regular additions of compost and other organic matter.
Sowing outdoors: Sow outdoors after last frost of spring in a rich, loose seed bed. Soak asparagus seeds in warm water for 24-48 hours to weaken the hard outer layer, then plant 1/4" deep and 12" apart in rows 3-4' apart. Germination is slow so be patient. For greater garden benefits, plant your perennial asparagus and tomatoes in close proximity; these two greatly benefit each other.
~ Harvesting ~
Perennial asparagus can be harvested in the second year, but healthier roots develop when serious harvesting begins in the third year. Spears may be harvested as soon as they appear in the spring until early summer; a height of 8" is usually the optimum size. Rather than cutting the spears, bending them until they break gives you only the tender part of the spear. When the weather gets hot, it is best to let the spears fully develop with ferny tops to ensure a healthy crop the next year.
