Asparagus – Mary Washington Improved

Mary Washington Improved Asparagus was first released in 1950 by the Burpee Company in the United States. It is a refined version of the classic Mary Washington asparagus variety, known for its exceptional hardiness, robust productivity, and impressive yields. It continues to be a favorite among home gardeners and commercial growers alike.

This asparagus variety offers the same rich and robust flavor as the original Mary Washington. It is known for its tender texture and mild, sweet taste, making it perfect for a variety of culinary uses, from grilling to steaming or even adding to salads.

The Mary Washington Improved Asparagus plant produces medium-sized stalks that are strong, uniform, and tender. The stalks have tight tops and are a vibrant green, making them both visually appealing and easy to harvest.

This asparagus variety is known for its excellent hardiness and robust productivity. It thrives in a variety of climates and is suitable for both home gardeners and commercial growers. With a long cutting season, it provides multiple harvests year after year, making it a reliable and productive addition to any garden.

Mary Washington Improved Asparagus is adaptable to various climates. While it’s not entirely immune to rust, it is somewhat rust-resistant, which gives it an advantage in areas that experience this disease. It thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and requires full sun for optimal growth.

This variety can be used in a variety of ways, including steaming, grilling, roasting, or sautéing. It also works well in soups, salads, and pasta dishes. Additionally, it freezes exceptionally well, allowing you to enjoy your harvest long after the season is over.

Mary Washington Improved Asparagus can be stored by freezing, which helps preserve its flavor and texture. For the best results, blanch the asparagus before freezing it. When harvesting, make sure to cut the stalks while they are still tender, and be sure to leave enough crowns for continued production in the coming years.

This variety is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, offering significant nutritional benefits. Asparagus is also a great source of fiber, antioxidants, and folate, making it a healthy addition to any diet.

Mary Washington Improved Asparagus has some resistance to rust, a common asparagus disease. While not completely immune, this rust resistance helps make the variety more reliable and resilient in areas prone to such diseases. It is generally considered a hardy and low-maintenance variety in the garden.