Asparagus 'Martha Washington' Heirloom
2.5-inch potted first-year Asparagus plants.
Choose a sunny, well-drained site on the edge of your garden where it will not be disturbed by the activity of planting.
A very strong growing and productive variety. First Year Plants!
Long, thick spears in May and early June are delicious eaten fresh from the garden and are also suitable for freezing. Although asparagus beds take several years to establish, each asparagus crown can produce up to 25 spears per year and will continue cropping for 25 years. Wait at least 2 seasons and probably 3 before harvesting. Choose a sheltered position in full sun. Asparagus beds should be richly fertile and well-drained. Remove all weeds, and incorporate plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost into the soil to improve soil structure and fertility. Mulch to prevent weeds.
- Height: 20-24 inches
- Spacing: 12-18 inches
Begin harvesting the third year after planting. Harvest when the spears are 6-10 inches above the ground but before the heads open. Cut or snap spears off at the soil line. Stop harvesting if spears show a marked decrease in size. Maximum harvest period is 6-8 weeks.