2026 Asparagus Mary Washington Vegetable Seeds Packet

Shipping Winter 2025

$2.35

2025 Seed Prices

  • Order 1-95 assorted packets for $2.35 each
  • Order 96-499 assorted packets for $1.85 each
  • Order 500 or more assorted packets for $1.65 each

Plant once, harvest for generations with Mary Washington Asparagus seeds! 

Step into gardening history with this legendary 1900s heirloom variety that revolutionized asparagus growing! Mary Washington (Asparagus officinalis) isn't just any asparagus - it's the rust-resistant champion that saved American asparagus production over a century ago. These remarkable seeds grow into perennial powerhouses that will reward your patience with decades of tender, succulent spears every spring. Imagine walking into your garden each April and May to harvest your own gourmet asparagus - thick, sweet, and more delicious than anything you can buy! This is the ultimate "plant once, enjoy forever" crop that transforms patient gardeners into asparagus aristocrats. Your future self will thank you for planting these seeds today!

Product Detail

Order in multiples of: 12

Quick Seed Overview

  • Plant Type: Perennial vegetable
  • Genus: Asparagus
  • Species: Asparagus officinalis
  • Plant Height/Width: 4-5 feet tall / 2-3 feet wide
  • Season: Spring to early summer (harvest), dormant in fall/winter
  • Exposure: Full Sun
  • Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (slow growth; requires patience)

SKU: SEASMW
Barcode: 843458164272

Sun Exposure

Full Sun to Partial Shade

Soil

Well-draining, fertile, pH 6.5-7.5

Sow Seed

 ¼ inch (6mm) deep

Spacing

12-18 inches apart (30-46cm), rows 4-5 feet apart (122-152cm)

Days

Year 3+ (light harvest year 2), April-May annually

Why Shido Seeds Are the Best

Avoid harvesting any spears during the first two years after planting. This allows the plants to develop a robust root system and store energy, which leads to larger, healthier harvests in future years. In the third year, harvest spears for only 4-6 weeks to prevent over-stressing the plants. Gradually increase the harvest duration in subsequent years for long-lasting, abundant yields.

Complete Growing Guide

This comprehensive guide provides all the information needed to successfully grow from seeds to mature, thriving plants that will provide years of delicate, beautiful foliage for both indoor enjoyment and floral arrangements.

Seed Starting

Sowing Process:

  1. Timing: Start seeds indoors ten to 14 weeks before your last frost date
  2. Container Preparation: Fill containers with moistened seed starting mix, ensuring good drainage
  3. Seed Placement: Plant ¼" deep and 2" apart in a temporary nursery bed or individual containers
  4. Environmental Control: Keep the temperature at 70-80 degrees F, and germination should begin in 10-14 days
  5. Moisture Management: Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging

Direct Sowing (Alternative Method)

  • Timing: For direct sowing, plant the seeds after the last frost of spring

Site Preparation:

  1. Choose permanent location (plants will remain 20+ years)
  2. Select sunny, well-drained location
  3. Work soil deeply (12-15 inches) to accommodate root system
  4. Work in vegetable food and organic matter

Sowing Process:

  • Sow as early as possible in the spring after soaking seeds overnight, 2-3 seeds per pot
  • Plant at same depth and spacing as indoor method
  • Optimum soil temperature for germination is 15-30°C

Seedling Care and Management

First Year Growth:

  • When large enough to handle thin to the strongest plant, or transplant additional seedlings
  • Focus on establishing strong root system
  • Allow all growth to develop into ferns (no harvesting)
  • Maintain consistent moisture and fertility

Site Selection for Permanent Planting:

  • Select a well-drained site with a sunny or partially shaded location
  • Place your asparagus off to one side of your garden to keep it out of the way when you plow or till
  • the rest of your soil
  • Consider installing permanent bed edging or fencing
  • Transplanting to Permanent Location
  • Timing: Late fall of first year or early spring of second year

Bed Preparation:

  1. Create raised beds for improved drainage
  2. Dig trenches 8-10 inches deep, 12-15 inches wide
  3. Add 4-6 inches of compost or aged manure to trench bottom
  4. Cover with 2-3 inches of soil

Planting Process:

  • Carefully dig up year-old plants with extensive root system
  • Plant crowns 6-8 inches deep in prepared trenches
  • Space plants 12-18 inches apart within rows
  • Backfill gradually as plants establish
  • Water thoroughly after planting

Establishment Period (Years 2-3)

Year 2:

  • Allow most spears to develop into ferns
  • Light harvest (2-3 weeks maximum) if plants are vigorous
  • Focus on building crown strength
  • Maintain weed control and consistent fertility

Year 3:

  • Expect light cuttings in 2 years and a regular crop thereafter
  • Begin normal harvest season (4-6 weeks)
  • Monitor plant vigor and adjust harvest duration accordingly

Mature Plant Management (Year 4+)

Harvest Season (April-May):

  • Harvest for 6-8 weeks when plants are fully established
  • Cut spears when 6-8 inches tall and pencil-thick or thicker
  • Harvest every 2-3 days during peak season
  • Stop harvesting when spear diameter decreases noticeably

Post-Harvest Care:

  • After harvest is completed, control weeds and allow spears to develop into fern
  • Fertilize the beds, water regularly, and control pests
  • Allow ferns to grow undisturbed through summer and fall

Fall Maintenance:

  • After ferns die in the fall, mow them down and use as a soil mulch
  • Apply winter mulch in colder regions
  • Plan for spring fertilizer application
Long-term Care

Soil Management:

  • Avoid tilling asparagus beds since this damages the crown
  • Add compost annually without disturbing crown area
  • Maintain soil pH through periodic testing and amendment

Weed Control:

  • Keep the planting bed around asparagus free of weeds and clean up all plant debris
  • Use heavy mulching to suppress annual weeds
  • Hand weed carefully to avoid crown damage

Fertility Program:

  • Annual spring application of
  • balanced fertilizer
  • Mid-season side-dressing with compost
  • Fall application of potassium to strengthen crowns
  • Organic matter additions to maintain soil health
  • Harvesting and Storage

Harvest Technique:

  • Cut spears at or slightly below soil level with sharp knife
  • Snap spears by hand when they break cleanly
  • Never pull spears from crown
  • Harvest in morning when temperatures are cool

Quality Standards:

  • Spears should be straight and firmTips should be tight and compact
  • Avoid woody or fibrous spears
  • Harvest before tips begin to open

Storage Methods:

  • Fresh storage: Refrigerate standing in shallow water for 1-2 weeks
  • Blanching and freezing: Maintains quality for 8-12 months
  • Dehydrating: Creates shelf-stable asparagus chips
  • Pickling: Traditional preservation method

Companion Planting and Garden Integration

Good Companions:

  • Tomatoes (different root depths, complementary growth periods)
  • Basil and parsley (aromatic herbs that may deter pests)
  • Lettuce and other cool-season crops (utilize space during dormant period)
  • Plants to Avoid: Onions and garlic (may inhibit asparagus growth)
  • Dense, spreading plants that compete for nutrients
  • Crops requiring frequent soil disturbance
  • Season Extension and Climate Adaptation

Cold Climate Considerations:

  • Choose early varieties like Mary Washington for shorter seasons
  • Provide winter mulch protection in zones 3-4
  • Plant in protected locations to extend harvest season

Warm Climate Adaptations:

  • Provide afternoon shade in very hot regions
  • Ensure consistent moisture during heat stress
  • Consider alternative varieties for zones 9-10
Troubleshooting Common Issues

Poor Germination:

  • Causes: Old seeds, inadequate soaking, wrong temperature, poor soil drainage
  • Solutions: Use fresh seeds, proper pre-soaking, maintain optimal temperature

Weak Spear Production:

  • Causes: Overharvesting, poor nutrition, crown damage, inadequate sun
  • Solutions: Reduce harvest period, improve fertility, protect crowns, ensure full sun

Premature Spear Opening:

  • Causes: Hot weather, water stress, overmature spears
  • Solutions: Harvest more frequently, maintain consistent moisture, harvest earlier

Crown Rot Issues:

  • Causes: Poor drainage, overwatering, soil compaction
  • Solutions: Improve drainage, reduce watering, avoid soil compaction

Pro Tip

Avoid harvesting any spears during the first two years after planting. This allows the plants to develop a robust root system and store energy, which leads to larger, healthier harvests in future years. In the third year, harvest spears for only 4-6 weeks to prevent over-stressing the plants. Gradually increase the harvest duration in subsequent years for long-lasting, abundant yields.

2026 Asparagus Mary Washington Vegetable Seeds Packet - Chive US Wholesale

Getting to know your Asparagus Mary Washington

Mary Washington asparagus is a popular, heirloom variety known for its tender, flavorful spears. It is a perennial plant that thrives in well-drained, sandy soil and full sun. The plant grows to about 4-5 feet tall when mature and produces slender, green spears with slightly purple tips. Asparagus takes 2-3 years to establish before it can be harvested, but it then produces reliably for 15-20 years. The spears are harvested in early spring and are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Mary Washington is resistant to rust and fusarium wilt, making it a hardy choice for home gardens. After the harvest season, the plant produces feathery, fern-like foliage that adds ornamental value.

What it's used for

Culinary Applications:

  • Fresh asparagus spears for grilling, roasting, and steaming
  • Gourmet spring vegetables for fine dining
  • Asparagus soup and risotto ingredients
  • Raw consumption in salads when young and tender
  • Pickling and preserving for year-round enjoyment
  • Blanching and freezing for long-term storage

Nutritional Benefits:

  • High in vitamins K, C, and folate
  • Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds
  • Good source of fiber and protein
  • Low-calorie, nutrient-dense vegetable
  • Contains glutathione, a powerful antioxidant

Garden Benefits:

  • Ornamental ferny foliage after harvest season
  • Attracts beneficial insects when in bloom
  • Deep root system improves soil structure
  • Long-term perennial crop reduces annual planting work
  • Excellent for establishing food forests and permanent beds

Economic Value:

  • High-value crop for market gardening
  • Significant grocery savings over plant lifetime
  • Premium heirloom variety commands higher prices
  • Gift potential for fellow gardeners
Growth Requirements

Temperature:

  • Germination: 70-80°F (21-27°C) optimal
  • Growing season: 60-85°F (15-29°C)
  • Winter dormancy: Requires 150+ hours below 50°F (10°C)
  • Cold tolerance: Hardy to USDA zones 3-9
  • Heat tolerance: Struggles in consistently hot climates (zones 10+)

Light:

  • Full sun preferred (6-8 hours direct sunlight daily)
  • Partial shade tolerated but reduces vigor and yield
  • Morning sun essential for optimal spear development

Protection from harsh afternoon sun in hot climatesSoil:

  • Well-draining, fertile soil essentials
  • pH range: 6.5-7.5 (slightly acidic to slightly alkaline)
  • Deep, loose soil to accommodate extensive root system
  • Rich in organic matter (compost, aged manure)
  • Avoid heavy clay or consistently wet soils

Water:

  • Consistent moisture during establishment and growing season
  • 1-2 inches weekly during active growth
  • Drought tolerance once established (after 2-3 years)
  • Avoid waterlogged conditions, which cause crown rot
  • Deep, infrequent watering preferred

Space:

  • Crown spacing: 12-18 inches apart in rows
  • Row spacing: 4-5 feet apart
  • Permanent bed location (plants live 20+ years)
  • Deep root system extends 4-6 feet down
  • Spreading habit requires adequate room
Maintenance

Annual Tasks:

  • Early Spring: Apply compost and balanced fertilizer before spear emergence
  • Spring: Harvest spears for 6-8 weeks when mature (2+ years old)
  • Late Spring/Summer: Allow ferns to develop fully for energy storage
  • Fall: Cut down dead ferns after first frost, apply mulch

Monthly Tasks (Growing Season):

  • April-May: Harvest spears every 2-3 days during harvest season
  • June-August: Maintain consistent moisture, control weeds
  • September: Begin reducing watering, allow natural dormancy prep

Weekly Tasks (During Harvest):

  • Harvest spears when 6-8 inches tall and pencil-thick or larger
  • Cut or snap spears at soil level, never pull from crown
  • Remove any damaged or pest-affected foliage
  • Monitor for pest activity

Fertilizing Schedule:

  • Early Spring: Apply 10-10-10 balanced fertilizer (2-3 pounds per 100 sq ft)
  • Post-Harvest: Side-dress with compost or aged manure
  • Fall: Apply potassium-rich fertilizer to strengthen crowns
  • Organic Options: Compost, fish emulsion, bone meal

Weed Management:

  • Cultivation must be very shallow, less than 2 inches deep
  • Hand weeding preferred to avoid crown damage
  • Heavy mulching to suppress weeds
  • Pre-emergent herbicides if necessary (organic options preferred)
Pests and Diseases

Major Pests:

Asparagus Beetles (Crioceris asparagi)

  • Identification: Asparagus beetles are commonly found in home plantings - metallic blue-black beetles with red/orange markings
  • Damage: Adults and larvae feed on spears and fern foliage
  • Treatment: Hand-pick beetles and use organic pest control methods if necessary
  • Prevention: Remove plant debris, encourage beneficial insects, row covers during peak season

Spotted Asparagus Beetle (Crioceris duodecimpunctata)

  • Identification: Orange beetles with black spots
  • Damage: Larvae feed on developing berries
  • Treatment: Similar to asparagus beetle - hand picking and organic controls
  • Prevention: Remove wild asparagus nearby, clean cultivation Cutworms
  • Identification: Brown/gray caterpillars that cut spears at soil level
  • Damage: Severed spears, particularly affecting young plantings
  • Treatment: Bt spray, beneficial nematodes, collar protection
  • Prevention: Clean cultivation, remove debris, encourage ground beetles

Common Diseases:

Asparagus Rust (Puccinia asparagi)

  • Symptoms: Orange/reddish pustules on ferns, yellowing foliage
  • Impact: Mary Washington varieties were developed around 1900 for greater disease resistance
  • Treatment: Ensure good air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases
  • Prevention: Choose rust-resistant varieties like Mary Washington, proper spacing, avoid overhead irrigation

Crown Rot (Fusarium spp.)

  • Symptoms: Wilting plants, reduced spear production, crown decay
  • Causes: Poor drainage, overwatering, soil compaction
  • Treatment: Improve drainage, remove affected plants, soil amendments
  • Prevention: Well-draining soil, proper planting depth, avoid overwatering

Purple Spot (Stemphylium vesicarium)

  • Symptoms: Purple spots on spears and ferns
  • Treatment: Fungicidal sprays if severe, improve air circulation
  • Prevention: Proper spacing, avoid overhead watering, clean cultivation

Integrated Pest Management:

  • Asparagus is relatively pest and disease-resistant
  • Encourage beneficial insects with diverse plantings
  • Practice crop rotation in surrounding areas
  • Maintain healthy soil and proper drainage
  • Remove and destroy plant debris annually

Growing Together with Shido

At Shido, everything we do starts with one goal: helping you have a truly successful growing experience. We know that planting seeds is just the beginning — your time, energy, and love for gardening are the real magic. That’s why we make sure the seeds you plant are fresh, full of life, and top-quality. When you choose Shido, you’re planting with confidence. We guarantee it.

Our mission is simple: bring you exceptional varieties of high-quality seeds at prices you’ll love, share detailed sowing and growing tips so you can thrive as a home gardener, and deliver the best customer service in the industry, with a smile.

Our Seed Safety Promise

We donotsell genetically modified seeds — ever. And we don’t use genetic engineering to breed new varieties. Instead, our skilled breeders use traditional, natural crossing methods to create hybrid seeds that are healthy, safe, and packed with potential.

Our Seed Quality Guarantee

At Shido, we believe great gardens start with great seeds — and that means quality comes first. Every seed lot we offer is ensure to generate top-notch germination because your garden deserves nothing less.

To keep our seeds at their peak, we run thorough pathology tests at trusted outside labs. When you open a Shido seed packet, you can trust it’s been nurtured, tested, and approved to give you strong, healthy plants from the very first sprout.

Types of Seeds We Offer

Open-Pollinated & Heirloom Seeds

Our open-pollinated (OP) seeds naturally reproduce through wind, insects, water, or self-pollination. When grown in isolation, they produce true-to-type plants year after year.

Among our OP seeds are treasured heirloom varieties — old favorites that have been carefully passed down for generations. While OP plants can be less uniform than hybrids, we run our Open-Pollinated Project to select the most reliable, flavorful, and beautiful strains.

Non-GMO: What It Means and Why It Matters

GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) is created when scientists alter a plant’s DNA in a lab — often by inserting genes from completely unrelated species — to achieve certain traits, like pest resistance or herbicide tolerance. This is a far cry from natural plant breeding.

At Shido, we believe gardening should stay as close to nature as possible. All our seeds — whether hybrid, heirloom, organic, or open-pollinated — are Non-GMO. They’re bred using traditional methods that respect natural biodiversity, giving you safe, wholesome seeds that grow into plants just as nature intended.

When you plant Shido Non-GMO seeds, you’re choosing purity, sustainability, and peace of mind — along with a garden full of flavor, color, and beauty.

Vacuum-Sealed for Freshness — Good for 10 Years

Every Shido seed packet isvacuum-sealedto lock in freshness and protect your seeds from moisture, air, and pests. This careful packaging not only preserves their quality but also extends their shelf life dramatically. Stored properly in a cool, dry place, our seeds remain viable for up to 10 years— so you can plant them now, next season, or even years down the road. Whether you’re planning a garden this spring or building a long-term seed stash, Shido seeds are ready when you are.


Feed Your Plants Like You Actually Know What You’re Doing

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Pretty Pots for Pretty Plants

Your plants work hard to look good—shouldn’t their pots do the same? Choose from our gorgeous flower pots and let your greenery thrive in style. Because plain plastic is just rude.