Asparagus 'Mary Washington' (8 claws)
'Mary Washington' Asparagus (5 claws) – A gourmet and sustainable project!
A long-term investment for a bountiful vegetable garden
'Mary Washington' asparagus ( Asparagus officinalis ) is a traditional variety highly prized for its long, flavorful, and tender green stalks . Adapted to cold climates, it is ideal for patient gardeners who wish to enjoy an abundant harvest for over 20 years once the crop is well established.
A long-term gardening project: asparagus requires 2 to 3 years before a full harvest, but it produces year after year once well established!
Variety characteristics
Planting period : March - April
Harvest : April - June (from the 3rd year onwards)
Plant height : 90 cm (36")
Exposure : Full sun
Hardiness zone : 3
Type : Open-pollinated
Yield : High
Flavor : Mild and full-bodied
Deer resistance : No
Planting and growing asparagus
When and where to plant
Plant the claws (roots) in early spring (March-April) , as soon as the ground is workable.
Choose a well-drained, rich and deep soil , ideally loamy or sandy.
Exposure to full sun to maximize growth and production.
How to plant
1Prepare the soil by adding compost or well-rotted manure.
2Dig a trench 15 cm (6") deep and 10 cm (4") wide , spaced 90 cm (36") apart between each row.
3Arrange the claws 40 cm (15") apart , roots well spread out, and cover them with 5 cm (2") of soil .
4Do not fill the entire trench immediately : gradually add soil as the shoots grow, until it reaches ground level.
5Water generously after planting.
Interview
Avoid harvesting the stems in the first year to allow the plants to establish themselves properly.
Water regularly , especially during periods of drought, while avoiding stagnant water.
Weed gently to avoid competition with other plants.
Apply mulch to retain moisture and limit weed growth.
When and how to harvest
1st year : Do not harvest , let the plants develop a strong root system.
2 year : Harvest lightly for 2 to 3 weeks .
Year 3 and following : Full harvest for 6 to 8 weeks each spring!
Harvesting method
Harvest the stems when they are 15 to 20 cm tall , before they become fibrous.
Cut them at the base with a sharp knife or break them by hand.
Stop harvesting in June to allow the plants to regenerate for the following year.
A well-maintained plantation can produce for over 20 years!
How to enjoy your 'Mary Washington' asparagus
Deliciously tender and flavorful, they lend themselves to many recipes!
Oven-roasted with olive oil and Parmesan cheese
Sautéed with garlic and butter for a simple yet elegant dish.
In a quiche or omelet for an irresistible springtime taste!
Blanched and served with a lemon vinaigrette .
A creamy, velvety soup for a delicious starter!
Storage tip : Wrap the ends of the stems in a damp paper towel and store them in a perforated bag in the refrigerator.
Why choose 'Mary Washington' asparagus
A long-term investment for a bountiful harvest for decades
A mild and refined taste, perfect for many dishes
A hardy variety adapted to cold climates
A nutritious and tasty addition to your vegetable garden
Transform your vegetable garden with 'Mary Washington' asparagus and enjoy its delicious harvests every spring!
