(Asparagus officinalis 'Mary Washington')
Mary Washington Asparagus is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather perennial vegetable that is native to California, where it was developed by the University of California-Davis in 1949. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 4-5' and features stout stems, feathery foliage, greenish-white to yellow bell-shaped flowers, 8" asparagus spears, and even red berries. This plant can be grown in a container, is resistant to rabbits, has nematocidal properties, is both edible and medicinal, can be used as a coffee substitute, and tolerates drought and frost!
Genus: Asparagus
Species: officinalis
Variety: Mary Washington Asparagus
Native to: Afghanistan, Albania, Altay, Austria, Belarus, Bulgaria, Central European Rus, Corse, Czechoslovakia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iran, Kazakhstan, Krasnoyarsk, Krym, Lebanon-Syria, Mongolia, North Caucasus, Pakistan, Poland, Sicilia, South European Russi, Switzerland, Transcaucasus, Turkey, Turkey-in-Europe, Ukraine, West Siberia, Xinjiang.
Introduced into: Alabama, Alberta, Algeria, Argentina Northeast, Argentina Northwest, Argentina South, Arizona, Arkansas, Baltic States, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bolivia, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Costa Rica, Cyprus, Delaware, Denmark, District of Columbia, East European Russia, East Himalaya, Ethiopia, Finland, Florida, Georgia, Great Britain, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Ireland, Kansas, Kentucky, Labrador, Louisiana, Madagascar, Maine, Manitoba, Marianas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mauritius, Mexico Central, Mexico Gulf, Mexico Northeast, Mexico Southeast, Mexico Southwest, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Morocco, Nebraska, Netherlands, Nevada, New Brunswick, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New South Wales, New York, New Zealand North, New Zealand South, Newfoundland, North Carolina, North Dakota, North European Russi, Northwest European R, Norway, Nova Scotia, Ohio, Oklahoma, Ontario, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Portugal, Prince Edward I., Queensland, Québec, Rhode I., Réunion, Sardegna, Saskatchewan, Seychelles, Solomon Is., South Australia, South Carolina, South Dakota, Spain, Sweden, Tennessee, Texas, Trinidad-Tobago, Tunisia, Uruguay, Utah, Vermont, Victoria, Virginia, Washington, West Himalaya, West Virginia, Western Australia, Wisconsin, Wyoming.
Ease of Growing: Moderate
Grown as: Perennial
Maturity: 60 Days
Hardiness: Hardy. Asparagus doesn't like very hot humid areas or very mild winters.
Crops: Spring Transplant, Spring
Growing Season: Long
Growing Conditions: Cold, Cool, Warm. Asparagus likes a sunny spot. It can take some light shade, but won't be as productive. These plants should be sheltered from strong winds and well away from large trees or shrubs, with their vigorous feeder roots.
Outdoor Growing Temp: 45°F - 85°F
Min Outdoor Soil Temp: 45°F. Asparagus can be planted out in early spring, as soon as the soil is in workable condition. However there is no rush, as it will take up to three years before you get a good harvest. Some people say late spring (after all danger of frost is passed) is actually better, as the plants grow faster in the warmer soil and there is less danger of rot.
Start Indoors: Yes
Start Outdoors: Yes
Light: Full Sun. Min. 6 hours daily (Cold, Cool, Warm). Give the plants full sun and shelter from strong winds. Keep them well away from large trees and shrubs and their hungry roots.
Water: Medium. The plants are fairly drought tolerant, but produce better if watered regularly. This is particularly important for young plants. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep rooting.
Soil Moisture: Medium. Well drained.
Feeder: Moderate. Asparagus is a fairly hungry plant and responds well to additional nutrients.
Suitability: Drought tolerant, Tolerates light frost, Tolerates hard frost, Needs lots of space.
Small Gardens?: No
Containers?: Yes. Growing asparagus in a container is possible, but it would require a very large pot that is at least 7 to 8" deep and at least 3-6' wide to accommodate the size of the plant at maturity.
Attracts beneficial insects?: No
Maintenance: Low
Plant Height: 48-60"
Plant Spacing: 18-24"
Sow Depth: 0.5"-1"
Hardiness Zone: 4-9
Produces: stout stems, feathery foliage, greenish-white to yellow bell-shaped flowers, 8" asparagus spears, and even red berries.
Garden Uses: Grow asparagus in the vegetable garden. Foliage can be used in floral arrangements.
Soil Preparation
Soil pH: 6.0-7.5, Ideal 6.5-7.0. Asparagus isn’t a particularly fussy plant, but it will produce more food if given optimal soil conditions. The ideal soil is deep, fairly light, rich and well drained, with lots of organic matter to help it retain water. In poorly drained soils the roots may rot over the winter. If you want to grow Asparagus in soil that gets wet in winter, plant it in raised beds.
Soil Preparation:
Standard Mix, 5 pounds per 100 sq. ft., 1 time: Asparagus is in the ground for a long time so prepare the soil well. Loosen it to a depth of 24", so you can remove all perennial weeds, debris and tree roots. Also incorporate a generous amount of a standard mix amendment. This is a mix of various amendments intended to supply all of the nutrients plants may require. It is usually incorporated into the soil prior to planting. The mix consists of:
- 4 parts cottonseed meal (this is high in nitrogen and relatively inexpensive)
- 2 parts colloidal phosphate or bone meal (for phosphorus)
- 2 parts wood ash or 3 parts greensand or granite dust (for potassium)
- 1 part dolomitic limestone (to balance pH and add calcium and magnesium)
- 1 part kelp meal (for trace elements)
Mix these together thoroughly. You can do this all at once, or you can store them separately and mix as needed.
Compost (Nitrogen), 4" 1 time: Asparagus is in the ground for a long time so prepare the soil well. Loosen it to a depth of 24" so you can remove all perennial weeds, debris and tree roots. Incorporate as much compost or aged manure as you can spare because you won't be able to do it again.
Bone meal (Phosphorus), 5 lbs. per 100 sq. ft., 1 time: Incorporate a source of phosphorus--such as bone meal or rock phosphate--into the soil along with the compost mix.
Start Indoors
Soil temp for germination: 50°F to 90°F, optimal 60°F to 75°F, optimal 70°F
Total weeks to grow transplant: 6 to 8 (Spring/Summer), 6 to 8 (Fall/Winter)
Transplant Outdoors
Plant outdoors once all danger of frost has passed.
The traditional planting procedure is to dig a hole or trench 18˝ wide and 12˝ deep. Put a small mound of compost in the trench and spread the root out flat over the mound. Cover the root with a 2˝layer of a soil mix (3 parts soil to 1 part compost) and water thoroughly. As the plants grow, slowly fill in the trench with more of the same mix. The books say don’t bury them to the full depth right away, as this can cause rot.
More recent thought is that this careful planting isn't necessary. It is now said that a shallow 5 to 6" deep hole is better, you can then just put the roots in the hole and fill it up loosely.
Cold, Cool, Warm: Asparagus likes a sunny spot. It can take some light shade, but won't be as productive. These plants should be sheltered from strong winds and well away from large trees or shrubs, with their vigorous feeder roots.
When outdoor temp: 45°F to 85°F, optimal temp 60°F to 70°F.
When min soil temp: 45°F. Asparagus can be planted out in early spring, as soon as the soil is in workable condition. However there is no rush, as it will take up to three years before you get a good harvest. Some people say late spring (after all danger of frost is passed) is actually better, as the plants grow faster in the warmer soil and there is less danger of rot.
Spacing: 18"-24", (1 per 2'x2') plants per sq ft. The recommended spacing is 18 to 24" apart, depending upon the fertility of the soil. It has been found that wider spacing produces more shoots and they also tend to be larger. In tests it was found that plants spaced 24" apart produced twice as many spears as plants that were closer together. This can give you the same harvest while using fewer plants.
In a 5' wide bed you might plant three rows, with 18" between the rows and 18" between the plants.
Support: No
Start Outdoors
When outdoor temp: 45°F to 85°F, optimal temp 60°F to 70°F
When min soil temp: 45°F. Asparagus can be planted out in early spring, as soon as the soil is in workable condition. However there is no rush, as it will take up to three years before you get a good harvest. Some people say late spring (after all danger of frost is passed) is actually better, as the plants grow faster in the warmer soil and there is less danger of rot.
Seed Depth: 0.5"-1". Sow the large seed 1/2" in cool soil and 1" deep in warm soil.
Spacing: 18"-24", (1 per 2'x2') plants per sq ft. The recommended spacing is 18 to 24" apart, depending upon the fertility of the soil. It has been found that wider spacing produces more shoots and they also tend to be larger. In tests it was found that plants spaced 24" apart produced twice as many spears as plants that were closer together. This can give you the same harvest while using fewer plants.
In a 5' wide bed you might plant three rows, with 18" between the rows and 18" between the plants.
Support: No
Asparagus is an independent plant, but if given even a moderate amount of care, it will be much more productive. A well cared for Asparagus bed should last for thirty years or more, but it can deteriorate quickly if neglected or over-harvested.
Water Needs: Moderate. The plants are fairly drought tolerant, but produce better if watered regularly. This is particularly important for young plants. Water deeply but infrequently to encourage deep rooting.
Fertilizer Needs: Moderate. Asparagus is a fairly hungry plant and responds well to additional nutrients.
Side Dressing: Compost (Nitrogen), 2 inches, 1 time. Asparagus is shallow rooted and its feeder roots are near the surface, so the best way to feed it is with a compost mulch (or aged manure).
Side Dressing: Compost tea, 0.25 gallons per plant, 1 time. Give the plant a liquid feed of compost tea (or liquid kelp - Asparagus loves seaweed) again in midsummer.
Watering: Water, 0.5 inches, 2 times a week Asparagus is much more productive when given adequate water, so keep the soil evenly moist, but never soggy. Watering also depends on your local weather; don't water if it's raining, or water more frequently if it's dry. Just be sure to keep soil moist for the best crop. The best way to know how much moisture is in your soil is to feel 2" below the soil line. If it's dry, water.
Weeding: every 4 weeks. Hand weed when plants are young so you don't damage the shallow roots. The double digging should have removed all perennial weeds. A mulch is helpful to keep down weeds.
Side Dressing: Compost tea, 0.25 gallons per plant, 1 time. Give the plant a liquid feed of compost tea (or liquid kelp - Asparagus loves seaweed) in spring.
Support: No
Harvesting
Look for tight tips of medium diameter. Harvest before they get thick and woody.
Avoid the temptation to harvest from a new bed too soon. Leave one year old roots until their 3rd year in the ground. Start harvesting 2 year old roots in their 2nd year in the ground. In both cases you should only harvest sparingly the first year (only for 2 weeks). The longer you wait, the stronger the plants will get.
When and How: Cut & Come Again
When: Wait until the plant's third year to harvest Asparagus grown from seed. The spears start to emerge when the soil is 50˚F, and are best gathered when about 4 to 6" shows above the ground and they are still tightly closed (though you get more if you wait until they are 8" long). Don’t harvest too many spears from a single root in one season as you can weaken it. Cut from a bed for 6 weeks and then leave it to regenerate. Stop harvesting earlier if the spears start to look thin.
How: Cut the spear underground, just above the crown with a sharp knife. Or snap them off as low down as they will break.
Storage
Storage Req: Canning
Storage Temp: 40-75°F
Storage Length: 1-180 days
Asparagus freezes well and this is the best way to store them for any length of time. Blanche the stems and then freeze them on a cookie sheet, keeping the stems separate. Once they are frozen, you can put them into freezer bags.
Storage Req: Freezer
Storage Temp: 0-32°F
Storage Length: 1-360 days
The shoots will keep for up to a week and a half in a plastic bag in the fridge.
Storage Req: Refrigerator
Storage Temp: 35-40°F
Storage Length: 1-10 days
Don't allow the plants to produce seed unless you need it, because it takes energy away from vegetative growth.
Seed Viability in Years: 2 - 5 years
Germination Percentage: 70%
Culinary
Sweet, mild, nutty and delicate.
Culinary Use:
Asparagus is served whole and can be steamed, boiled, roasted or grilled, although the problem with boiling Asparagus is that it leaches out many of the valuable nutrients. It is actually much better and advisable to steam or roast it. It is best to eat the asparagus as soon as you harvest it, to retain the richness in flavor.
Young shoots: raw or cooked. Considered a gourmet food, the shoots are harvested in the spring. We find them very acceptable raw in salads, with a hint of onion in their flavor. They are normally boiled or steamed and used as a vegetable. Male plants produce the best shoots. Do not over-harvest the plant because this would weaken it in the following year. The shoots are a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Roasted seeds are a coffee substitute.
Medicinal
Companion Planting
Companions: Interplant early crops, such as lettuce, beets, or spinach between the rows in spring. In Colonial times, grapes were sometimes trellised between the asparagus rows.
Enemies: None Known.
Problems
Asparagus Beetles
To attract Assassin Bugs to your garden try growing: field crops, ornamental trees and shrubs. Spined assassin bugs are often found on goldenrod and other wildflowers.
Birds: Birds often eat Asparagus Beetles and larvae, which appear during nesting season when birds need more protein.
Ladybeetles, Ladybugs, or Ladybird Beetles: Ladybeetles are probably the most well-known of beetles that eat aphids. There are many species, and both the adults and larvae eat aphids. Convergent lady beetles and the seven-spotted ladybeetles are abundant species in the environment. Eggs are found in clutches, yellow and football shaped. Larvae have an alligator-like appearance, and are black with orange markings. Pupae are sedentary. Ladybeetles are commercially available but purchasing is not generally recommended since the adult stage tends to fly away once released. Introductions may be more effective in greenhouses and high tunnels. Diverse plantings can help recruit resident ladybeetles to an area.
To attract Ladybugs to your garden you will need to grow: Angelica, Calendula, Caraway, Chives, Cilantro, Cosmos, Dill, Fennel, Feverfew, Marigold, Statice, Sweet Alyssum, and Yarrow. You may also want to grow decoy crops to keep your ladybugs supplied with aphids to eat such as Early cabbage, Marigold, Nasturtium, and Radish. Without a food source, your ladybugs will be forced to leave which will leave your crops vulnerable.
Eulophid Wasp: Are the most effective predator which eats Asparagus Beetle eggs early in the season, and lays its eggs in asparagus beetle eggs in summer. This beneficial insect, which is so helpful with asparagus beetle control, was identified in Massachusetts in 1915 and is now found wherever asparagus is grown. It is not currently offered for sale commercially.
Japanese Beetles
To attract Tachinid Flies to your garden try growing: Carrots, Dill, Coriander, Lacy Phacelia, and Buckwheat.
Spiders: Prey on a wide range including Bed Bugs, Aphids, Roaches, Grasshoppers, Cabbage Looper, and Fruit Flies.
To attract Spiders to your garden you will need to grow: tall plants for weaving Spiders, mulch for predatory Spiders.
Praying Mantis: Preys on a wide range including Caterpillars, Moths, Beetles, and Crickets.
To attract Praying Mantis to your garden you will need to grow: tall grasses and shrubs, Cosmos, Marigolds, and Dills.
Spined Soldier Bugs: Prey on larvae of Mexican Bean Beetle, European Corn Borer, Diamondback Moth, Corn Earworm, Beet Armyworm, Fall Armyworm, Cabbage Looper, imported Cabbageworm, Colorado Potato Beetle, Velvetbean Caterpillar, and Flea Beetles.
To attract Spined Soldier Bugs to your garden try growing: Alfalfa, Apples, Asparagus, Beans, Celery, Cotton, Crucifers, Cucurbits, Eggplant, Onions, Potatoes, Soybeans, Sweet Corn and Tomatoes.
Nutrition
The Health Benefits of Asparagus
Pregnancy: The high folate content in asparagus aids in reducing the danger of low birth weight and birth defects during pregnancy. Folate is essential for the neuronal growth of the fetus. It also helps in reducing the complication of edema or retention of water in the body tissues owing to its diuretic effect.
PMS: An asparagus extract can be used effectively for easing pre-menstrual bloating. The presence of essential nutrients helps to combat depression and fatigue, as well as reduce menstrual cramps. Asparagus also helps in controlling blood loss and maintaining hormonal balance during menstruation.
Fertility: The root of asparagus racemosus is widely appreciated in Ayurvedic therapy and is famously known as shatavari, which means ‘one who has 100 husbands’. Shatavari has aphrodisiac properties and is used to regulate the hormones and cure male and female sexual disorders. It has anti-anxiety properties and helps in curing physical and mental debility in males. It also helps in enhancing the libido and boosts sperm count and its motility. In females, asparagus has been proven to be effective in menopausal syndrome and anemia. Shatavari has been trusted as a galactogogue and is also valued for its effectiveness in improving the quality and quantity of the breast milk, while boosting the appetite of nursing women. Research studies conducted on animals have demonstrated positive effects on the genitals and the mammary glands of the subject females who consumed adequate amounts of asparagus.
Digestive Health: Asparagus contains significant quantities of the nutrient inulin. Inulin is a kind of complex carbohydrate that is commonly known as prebiotic. It does not get digested until it reaches the large intestine, where it is fed upon by a kind of good bacteria like Lactobacilli. This aids in the improved absorption of nutrients and the reduced risk of stomach cancer and allergies.
Asparagus is also a good provider of dietary fiber and has laxative properties that help in the smooth functioning of the bowels, keeping bloating and constipation at bay. Along with healthy digestion, fiber also helps in lowering the cholesterol levels of the body. Asparagus is widely recommended in Ayurvedic therapy for its effectiveness in curing diarrhea, dysentery, and dyspepsia, which is a feeling of abdominal uneasiness including burning sensations or navel pain occurring during or after eating. Studies have shown that asparagus racemosus has been proven to be just as effective as the commercially available modern drugs in treating dyspepsia.
Anti-Tumor Properties: Asparagus racemosus, or wild asparagus, contains a certain variety of phytonutrients known as saponins. Studies have demonstrated that the saponins obtained from asparagus possess anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.
Along with the chemo-preventive efficiency, asparagus also helps in elevating the levels of glutathione, an antioxidant and a detoxifying compound which plays a major role in aging and helps in the prevention of many diseases like HIV, AIDS, cystic fibrosis, Alzheimer’s disease, anemia, cancer, diabetes, and various cardiac disorders.
Diabetes: The anti-inflammatory nutrients present in asparagus help in reducing the risk of chronic health ailments, including type 2 diabetes. This beneficial effect is also attributed to the presence of the mineral chromium, which plays a vital role in regulating the blood sugar levels of the body. Studies conducted in this regard have shown significant results and have proven that asparagus helps in keeping a check on blood sugar levels, improves insulin secretion, and provides an anti-diabetic effect.
Hangovers: Asparagus extract contains essential amino acids that may prove effective in curing hangovers. A hangover refers to the unpleasant physiological effect caused due to substantial consumption of alcoholic drinks. Its symptoms include anxiety, fatigue, stomach disorders like nausea, vomiting, and dehydration. Research studies have demonstrated that leaves and shoots of asparagus contain good amount of inorganic mineral content, which also aid in the protection of the liver cells from the toxic effects of alcohol.
Cataracts: Asparagus is a source of vitamin A, which is essential for good vision. Due to the presence of antioxidants, it helps in defending the retina from the damage caused by the oxygen-free radicals. The presence of the amino acid glutathione in asparagus also helps in reducing the risk of eye ailments such as cataracts and night blindness.
Rheumatism: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the joints. Studies have shown that the consumption of folate-rich food like asparagus, which also possess anti-inflammatory properties, may help relieve the pain and ease the overall poor functioning in the body associated with arthritis.
Rutin: Asparagus is also a rich source of rutin, a flavonoid that possesses anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat hemorrhoids and prevent the clotting of blood. It also enhances the permeability of capillaries, strengthens the blood vessels and protects them from becoming fragile. Rutin also prevents the hardening of arteries by reducing the viscosity of blood and helps in easing hypertension, reducing cholesterol, and maintaining cardiovascular health.
Tuberculosis: Asparagus racemosus is also known for its effectiveness in curing bronchitis and tuberculosis. It improves the efficiency of the functioning of lung tissues and helps in treating throat infections as well.
Neurodegenerative Diseases: Neurodegenerative diseases are genetic or periodic conditions affecting the neurons of the human brain. The body does not normally have the ability to replace the damaged neurons. Studies have provided evidence that asparagus racemosus is effective in treating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s diseases. These beneficial effects are attributed to the presence of phytoestrogens in asparagus racemosus that have certain neuroprotective effects.
Anti-depressant drug: Scientific research has shown the efficacy of asparagus racemosus as an anti-anxiety and anti-depressant drug. It helps in enhancing the memory, increases the production and secretion of estrogen, and has a revitalizing and calming effect on the nervous system.
Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a chronic disorder that affects the brain and leads to recurrent convulsions or seizures. The brain transmits abnormal signals as a result of irreversible changes in the brain tissues. The roots of asaparagus racemosus can be used as an anti-epileptic and helps in curing the symptoms of epilepsy.
Urinary tract infections: Research studies show that asparagus racemosus possess anti-urolithiatic effect, which helps to cure urinary tract infections. Due to the vegetable’s diuretic properties, consumption of asparagus increases the frequency and volume of urination. This helps to detoxify and flush the toxic waste out of the body. According to the research, the anti urolithiatic effect can be attributed to the presence of antioxidants and essential vitamins C and E.
Asparagus is also known to give a peculiar, pungent smell to the urine, which is completely normal. This is because asparagus breaks down its constituents of ammonia and sulphur into volatile chemical compounds that actually help the body to detoxify.
Blood Cholesterol: Studies have supported the fact that the wealth of anti-oxidants in asparagus has the potential to treat oxidative stress, along with other disorders such as hyperlipidemia and hypercholesterolemia. These diseases indicate the presence of high fat and cholesterol content in the body, which can further pose a major threat for fatal conditions like cardiovascular diseases and atherosclerosis.
Culinary Usage: Asparagus has a delicate flavor and can be eaten raw, grilled, or roasted. It can be added as an ingredient to pickles, salad recipes, and various soups. The shoots of the asparagus plant are relished as an appetizer and are prepared in many different ways around the world. Asparagus requires minimal cooking, which gave birth to a famous Roman saying, “As quick as cooking asparagus”, for anything that has to be done quickly.
A Few Words of Caution:
Asparagus is also referred as rasayana herb in Ayurveda and offers an immense range of health benefits with a few exceptions or side effects, which are listed below.
Gas: Asparagus contains a carbohydrate known as raffinose. In order to digest this complex sugar, the human body needs to ferment it. During this process of breaking down the carbohydrate, gas is often produced and subsequently released from the body.
Pregnancy and Lactation: Asparagus alters the hormonal balance and has been traditionally used for birth control. During pregnancy and lactation, it is usually considered safe to consume a normal amount of asparagus, but not to opt for medicinal doses without consulting a doctor.
Allergic Reactions: Asparagus can cause allergies to those who are susceptible to allergic reactions to onions, leeks, and other members of the lily family.
Kidney stones: Asparagus contains purines. Purines break down to create uric acid which can accumulate as a result of a high purine content in the body. This is not favorable for people suffering from uric acid-related complications like gout or kidney stones. It is recommended to avoid or restrict the intake of purine dense foods like asparagus for patients of those conditions.
Suggested Varieties
(Lobularia maritima ‘Royal Carpet’)
Royal Carpet Sweet Alyssum is a cool weather mat-forming annual flower native to the Mediterranean region but can be commonly found growing on sandy beaches and dunes throughout the western, eastern, and southern United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 4" and features spreading mounds of well-branched stems full of tiny, purple, 4-petaled flowers that smell like warm honey on a cold day! This plant can be grown in a container or hanging basket, attracts bees and butterflies, tolerates drought, is edible, and has medicinal properties!
(Ocimum basilicum 'Clove Scented')
Clove Scented Basil is an annual herb that is native to India and Asia but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 18-24” and features clove-scented green leaves and clusters of tiny white flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees and butterflies, is rabbit safe, repels flies, mosquitoes, and thrips, is resistant to deer, is used to make essential oils and mosquito repellent, is both edible and medicinal, and is great as a cut flower!
(Ocimum basilicum ‘Italian Large Leaf’)
Italian Large Leaf Basil is an annual herb native to India and Asia but grows in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches 18-30” in height and features 3" dark green leaves and clusters of tiny pink flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees and butterflies, is rabbit safe, repels flies, mosquitoes, and thrips, is resistant to deer, is used to make essential oils and mosquito repellent, is edible and medicinal, and is used as a cut flower!
(Ocimum basilicum ‘Lemon’)
Lemon Basil is an annual herb that is native to India and Asia but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches a height of 12-18” and features lemon-scented, pointed green leaves and clusters of white flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees and butterflies, is rabbit safe, repels flies, mosquitoes, and thrips, is resistant to deer, is used to make essential oils and mosquito repellent, is both edible and medicinal, and is used as a cut flower!
(Ocimum basilicum ‘Purple Ruffles’)
Purple Ruffles Basil is a native annual herb that grows in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches 18-24” tall and features ruffled, dark purple leaves, maroon stems, and spikes of bright fuchsia flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees and butterflies, is rabbit safe, repels flies, mosquitoes, and thrips, is resistant to deer, is used to make essential oils and mosquito repellent, is edible and medicinal, and is used as a cut flower!
(Ocimum basilicum ‘Spicy Globe’)
Spicy Globe Basil is an annual herb native to India and Asia but grows in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches a height of 8-14” and features 1/4-1" light green leaves and white flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees and butterflies, is rabbit safe, repels flies, mosquitoes, and thrips, is resistant to deer, is used to make essential oils and mosquito repellent, is both edible and medicinal, and is used as a cut flower!
(Ocimum basilicum ‘Sweet’)
Sweet Basil is an annual herb native to India and Asia but grows in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches 24-30” tall and features medium green leaves and spikes of white or pale pink flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees and butterflies, is rabbit safe, repels flies, mosquitoes, and thrips, is resistant to deer, is used to make essential oils and mosquito repellent, is both edible and medicinal, and is used as a cut flower!
(Beta vulgaris 'Detroit Dark Red')
Detroit Dark Red Beet is a heirloom, semi-hardy cool weather annual/biennial vegetable that is native to Canada, where it was developed by a Mr. Reeves in Ontario and introduced by D.M. Ferry & Company in 1892. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 12-18” and features a 3" uniformly dark red, round beets with red stemmed, dark green tops. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is horse and rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Carum carvi ‘Caraway')
Caraway is a biennial herb that is native to Europe and Asia but can be commonly found growing in meadows, prairies, and along roadsides throughout the northern United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 12-18” and features feathery fronds and umbrella shaped clusters of tiny white flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, damsel bugs, hoverflies, lacewings, ladybugs, and predatory wasps, and is also both edible and medicinal!
(Daucus carota 'Chantenay Red Cored')
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(Daucus carota 'Cosmic Purple')
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Cosmic Purple Carrot is a hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to Wisconsin, where it was developed in Madison by Dr. Philipp in 2005. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 6-12” and features 7" purple skinned carrots with orange and yellow flesh. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and make alcohol, and is both edible and medicinal.
(Daucus carota 'Danvers')
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(Daucus carota 'Rainbow Blend')
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Rainbow Blend Carrot is a heirloom seed mix consisting of Cosmic Purple, Atomic Red, Lunar White, and Solar Yellow Carrots which are hardy, cool weather annual vegetables that are grown in the United States. These carrots can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and make alcohol, and is both edible and medicinal.
(Daucus carota 'Scarlet Nantes')
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Scarlet Nantes Carrot is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to France, but are commonly grown across the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 16” and features a 7" long, bright red-orange, fine-grained fleshed carrot. These carrots can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and make alcohol, and is both edible and medicinal.
(Daucus carota 'Tendersweet')
Tendersweet Carrot is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to Europe, but are commonly grown across the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 6-18” and features a 9-10" coreless, deep orange carrots. These carrots can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and make alcohol, and is both edible and medicinal.
(Coriandrum sativum ‘Leisure')
Leisure Coriander is a warm-weather annual herb that is native to the western Mediterranean and southern Europe but can be found growing throughout meadows and fields in the coastline and border states of the U.S. At maturity, this plant reaches a height of 24-36” and features fern-like, finely-divided upper leaves, lobed lower leaves that resemble Italian Parsley, and 2” compound umbels that have white to pale lavender flower blooms. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies, lacewings, ladybugs, predatory wasps, and tachinid flies, repels aphids and spider mites, is horse and rabbit safe, is used to flavor perfume and soap, tolerates light frost, is used to make fungicides, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Anethum graveolens ‘Dukat')
Dukat Dill is an annual herb that is native to the Mediterranean and Asia but can be commonly found growing throughout the Midwest, northeastern, and west coast of the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches a height of 3-5' and features stiff hollow stems, sweet-scented, bluish-green, feathery foliage, and compound 10” umbrella-shaped umbels that are topped by yellow aromatic flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies, lacewings, ladybugs, predatory wasps, and tachinid flies, repels aphids, spider mites, and squash bugs, is rabbit safe, tolerates deer, its leaves are used as an insect repellent, tolerates drought and light frost, is used to flavor soaps, is used to make insecticides, is both edible and medicinal and self-sows!
(Foeniculum vulgare ‘Florence')
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Florence Fennel is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean but can be commonly found growing throughout most of the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 3-5' and features a rounded, branching, celery-like stalk, yellowish-green, feathery foliage and umbrella shaped heads of tiny yellow flowers. This plant attracts bees, butterflies, damsel bugs, hoverflies, lacewings, ladybugs, and predatory wasps, tolerates deer, is used to flavor air fresheners, perfumes, soaps, and toothpaste, the leaves are used to repel insects, tolerates drought and light frost, is used to make dyes, is both edible and medicinal, and self sows!
(Phacelia tanacetifolia ‘Lacy’)
Lacy Phacelia is a native annual flower that grows on sandy or gravelly slopes of foothills in the western United States. At maturity, this plant reaches a height of 18-36” and features fern-like foliage and long unusual stamens that protrude from five-lobed bell-shaped lavender-blue flowers that smell of grapes. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies, hummingbirds, and tachinid flies, creates biomass, tolerates drought, is resistant to deer, self-sows, and is used as a cut flower!
(Lactuca sativa 'Bibb')
Bibb Lettuce is a heirloom, semi-hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to Kentucky where is was developed in Frankfort by Lt. Jack B. Bibb in 1935. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 8-12” and features loose heads with light green leaves. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Lactuca sativa 'Freckles Romaine')
Freckles Romaine Lettuce is a heirloom, semi-hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to Austria and Southern Germany, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 18-24” and features loose conical heads with red speckled bright green leaves. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Lactuca sativa 'Oakleaf')
Oakleaf Lettuce is a heirloom, semi-hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to France, where it was developed and introduced by Vilmorin Seed Company in 1771. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 6-12” and features tight rosettes with bright green oakleaf shaped leaves. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Lactuca sativa 'Red Romaine')
Red Romaine Lettuce is a heirloom, semi-hardy, cool weather annual vegetable that is native to the Mediterranean region, but was introduced into the United States by Dessert Seed Company in 1950. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 8-12” and features 10” long, crinkled reddish leaves. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Petroselinum crispum 'Italian Giant')
Italian Giant Parsley is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather biennial vegetable that is native to the Mediterranean region, but can be commonly found growing in gardens throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 18-16” and features flat, dark, glossy green leaves. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts hoverflies, predatory wasps, and tachinid flies, is rabbit safe, tolerates light frost, is used to flavor perfumes and repel insects, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Spinacia oleracea 'Bloomsdale Longstanding')
Bloomsdale Longstanding Spinach is a heirloom, hardy, cool weather biennial vegetable that is native to Philadelphia where is was developed by David Landreth in 1826. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 12-18” and features thick, wrinkled, dark green leaves. This plant can be grown in a container, is rabbit safe, frost tolerant, is used to make dyes, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Amana Orange')
Amana Orange Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather perennial vegetable that is native to Iowa, where it was named by Gary Staley after the Amana Colonies of Amana, Iowa. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 60-84” and features globe shaped, reddish orange beefsteak indeterminate tomatoes that average 1-2 lbs. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Beefsteak')
Beefsteak Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to New York, where it was bred by Peter Henderson in 1894. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 36-60” and features indeterminate, globe shaped, slightly ribbed red tomatoes that average 1-2 pounds. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Green Zebra')
Green Zebra Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to Washington, where it was bred by Tom Wagner in 1983. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 60-84” and features indeterminate, globe shaped greenish yellow tomatoes striped with green, averaging 3-5 ounces. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Yellow Pear')
Yellow Pear Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to Europe, but was first introduced to North America by the Hudson Bay Company of Vancouver, Canada. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 60-84” and features indeterminate, pear shaped, low acid yellow tomatoes that average 1 ounce. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Solanum lycopersicum 'Sweetie Cherry')
Sweetie Cherry Tomato is a heirloom, tender, warm weather annual vegetable that is native to the United States, where it was first introduced by the Petoseed Company in 1980. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 72-96” and features indeterminate, clusters of round red cherry tomatoes that average 1" in diameter. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts earwigs, is rabbit safe, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetics, insecticides, and soap, and is both edible and medicinal!
(Achillea millefolium 'Rubra')
Red Yarrow is a native mat-forming perennial that can be commonly found growing along roadways and in fields and lawns throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 1-2' and features erect stems, medium green fern-like foliage, and clusters of red flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies, ladybugs, and predatory wasps, is rabbit safe, repels beetles, and flies, the leaves are burned to repel mosquitoes, is used as a compost activator, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetic cleansers, dye, essential oil, and liquid plant food, self sows, is both edible and medicinal, and is great as a cut flower!
(Achillea millefolium 'White')
White Yarrow is a native mat-forming perennial that can be commonly found growing along roadways and in fields and lawns throughout the United States. At maturity, this plant reaches the height of 12-18” and features erect stems, medium green fern-like foliage, and clusters of white flowers. This plant can be grown in a container, attracts bees, butterflies, hoverflies, ladybugs, and predatory wasps, is rabbit safe, repels beetles, and flies, the leaves are burned to repel mosquitoes, is used as a compost activator, tolerates drought, is used to make cosmetic cleansers, dye, essential oil, and liquid plant food, self sows, is both edible and medicinal, and is great as a cut flower!