Asparagus Mary Washington & Argenteuil Seeds For Planting, Grow Classic and Unique Asparagus Varieties

Asparagus Mary Washington & Argenteuil are two classic and well-loved varieties of asparagus that offer excellent flavor, high yields, and reliable performance. Here's a guide to planting and growing both of these varieties:

Key Features:

• Product Name: Asparagus Mary Washington & Argenteuil Seeds
• Plant Type: Perennial vegetable (produces for 15-20 years or more)
• Sunlight Needs: Full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day)
• Soil Requirements: Well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.5-7.5
• Ideal Uses: Perfect for steaming, grilling, roasting, or adding to soups and salads. Can also be preserved by freezing or canning.
• Flavor Profile:
  • Mary Washington: Known for its tender, sweet, and mild flavor.
  • Argenteuil: A slightly more delicate flavor, considered more refined and gourmet.

Product Details:

• Seed Quality: Non-GMO, heirloom seeds with strong germination rates.
• Mature Size: Both varieties produce thick, tender spears. Mary Washington can reach 12 inches tall, while Argenteuil spears can be even larger when mature.
• Yield: Both varieties offer high yields, especially when planted in deep, well-prepared soil.

Planting Instructions:

Seed Preparation:

• Soaking (Optional): Soak seeds for 24 hours to help improve germination rates.
• Stratification: Both varieties benefit from cold-stratifying seeds. Place seeds in a damp paper towel, seal in a plastic bag, and refrigerate for 4-6 weeks before planting.
• Germination Temperature: Asparagus seeds germinate best at temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C).

Sowing Instructions:

• Indoor Start: Start seeds indoors 8-12 weeks before the last frost date. After frost danger has passed, transplant seedlings to the garden.
• Outdoor Sowing: Direct sow seeds outdoors in early spring once the soil has warmed to at least 50°F (10°C) or in late summer for a fall planting.
• Spacing: Space seeds 1-2 inches apart, with rows 18-24 inches apart. After germination, thin seedlings to 12-18 inches apart to give plants room to grow.

Care & Maintenance:

• Watering: Asparagus plants require consistent moisture, particularly during the growing season. Water deeply at the base, avoiding overhead watering to prevent disease.
• Fertilization: Asparagus is a heavy feeder. Use compost or well-rotted manure at planting time. Apply balanced fertilizers during the growing season to support healthy growth.
• Mulching & Weeding: Mulch around plants to retain moisture and control weeds. Keep the soil moist and weed-free, especially in the first few years.
• Cutting Back: After harvesting, allow the ferns to grow and gather energy for the next season. Cut the ferns back in late fall or early winter once they have turned yellow.

Harvesting & Storage:

• Harvesting Time:
  • Mary Washington: Typically starts producing harvestable spears in 2-3 years.
  • Argenteuil: Takes about 3 years to fully establish and produce spears.
• Harvesting Method: Harvest spears when they are 6-8 inches tall, snapping them at ground level or cutting them with a sharp knife.
• Storage: Fresh asparagus should be used within a few days. Store it in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp towel, or blanch and freeze for longer storage.

Tips for Success:

• Patience: Asparagus takes 2-3 years to establish and start producing a significant harvest, but once established, it can continue to produce for 15-20 years or more.
• Climate: Both varieties thrive in temperate climates. If you live in a hotter area, consider providing some afternoon shade to avoid heat stress.
• Pest Control: Watch out for asparagus beetles and aphids. Regularly inspect the ferns and apply organic insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.

Conclusion:

• Mary Washington is a reliable, high-yielding variety with tender, sweet spears. It's a classic choice for gardeners looking for consistent and abundant crops.
• Argenteuil adds a unique gourmet touch with its delicate, refined flavor. It’s perfect for those seeking a more unique asparagus variety that can become a garden showstopper.