Asparagus officinalis 'Martha Washington'

Direct sow asparagus seed outdoors in mid spring in a well prepared seed bed. 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. On cold, wet soils the addition of sharp sand or grit will help to improve drainage. Soak the seeds for 48 hours in warm water before sowing 5cm (2") deep, 8cm (3") apart in drills 30cm (12") apart. Asparagus seed germination is slow taking 21 - 30 days.

Alternatively asparagus seeds can be started off under glass. When large enough to handle, thin out asparagus seedlings to 30cm (12") apart, and grow on for a season. The following spring (late March/April) transplant young asparagus plants into a well prepared bed. Plant asparagus crowns 45cm (18") apart in rows 1.2m (4ft) apart taking care to ensure that the roots are not cramped.

Seeds and garden supplies will normally be delivered within the time period stated against each product as detailed above. Plants, bulbs, corms, tubers, shrubs, trees, potatoes, etc. are delivered at the appropriate time for planting or potting on. Delivery times will be stated on the product page above, or in your order acknowledgement page and email.

Orders for packets of seed incur a delivery charge of £2.99.

Orders which include any other products will incur a delivery charge of £6.99.

Where an order includes both packets of seeds and other products, a maximum delivery charge of £7.99 will apply - regardless of the number of items ordered.

Large items may incur a higher delivery charge - this will be displayed in your shopping basket.

Please see our Delivery page for further details, and more information on different charges that may apply to certain destinations.

For more information on how we send your plants please visit our Helpful Guide on plant sizes.