Asparagus Seeds Mary Washington

Sowing: Begin by soaking Mary Washington asparagus seeds overnight to help soften their hard outer layer. Plant them 0.6 cm deep and 5.1 cm apart in a temporary nursery bed. Maintain a temperature of 23 Celsius, and germination should commence within 10-14 days. Alternatively, for direct sowing, wait until after the last spring frost to plant the seeds. For additional garden benefits, consider planting your perennial asparagus and tomatoes close together, as they mutually benefit each other.

Growing: Approximately 10-12 weeks after planting, transplant the seedlings outdoors. There's no need to dig a trench; simply space the plants 30.5 cm apart in rows 3-4 feet apart. Sandy, well-drained soil and full sun exposure are ideal for asparagus growth. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist and apply mulch to deter weed growth. Regular applications of compost and other organic matter will greatly benefit the asparagus plants.

Harvesting asparagus is a delicate process that requires careful attention to timing and technique to ensure a bountiful and healthy crop. Here's how to harvest asparagus:

Established Plants: Asparagus plants typically need two to three years to establish themselves before they can be harvested. During this establishment period, it's essential to allow the spears to grow into tall ferns to help build strong root systems.

Timing: Once established, you can begin harvesting asparagus when the spears are about 15-25 cm tall and have a diameter similar to a pencil. This usually occurs in the second or third year after planting.

Harvesting Technique: When harvesting, grasp the asparagus spear near the base and gently snap or cut it just above the soil level using a sharp knife or asparagus harvesting tool. Avoid damaging other emerging spears during the harvest process.

Frequency: Asparagus spears can be harvested over a period of several weeks, typically from early spring to early summer, depending on your climate and the variety of asparagus. Stop harvesting when the spear diameter becomes thinner than a pencil or when the spears begin to develop fern-like foliage.

Post-Harvest Care: After harvesting, it's essential to allow the remaining spears to grow and develop into ferns to replenish the plant's energy reserves. This foliage will capture sunlight and produce food through photosynthesis, helping to strengthen the roots for future growth.

Storage: Asparagus is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to store it, you can refrigerate the spears for up to a week. To maintain freshness, wrap the spears in a damp paper towel and store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious asparagus from your garden year after year.

Seed saving for asparagus can be done if needed, although well-established plots can last for 20 years or more. Here's how to save asparagus seeds:

Maturity: Allow the asparagus stalks to reach maturity, characterized by their tall, fern-like appearance.

Harvesting Berries: When the berries on female plants turn red, pick them and gently squeeze out the seeds into a container of water. Be sure to clean off any remaining pulp from the seeds.

Drying: Lay the Mary Washington asparagus seeds out to dry for several weeks in a well-ventilated area. This helps to prevent mold and ensures the seeds are fully dried.

Storage: Once dry, store the seeds in a cool, dry place for up to three years. Be sure to label the container with the date and variety of seeds for future reference.

By following these steps, you can successfully save asparagus seeds for future planting and ensure a continuous supply of this delicious and nutritious vegetable.

Planting Methods: Indoor, Outdoor, Hydroponics, Sprouts
Blooming Season: Late spring to Early summer
Latin Name/USDA Zones: Asparagus officinalis/ 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Sunlight Required/Height: Full Sun/15.24-25.4 cm.
Can I Grow Arugula Sprouts: Yes
Seed Type: Open Pollinated & Heirloom
Soil Type: Loam Soil
Planting Season: Early Spring