Asparagus UC-72 - 100 Non-GMO, Heirloom Seeds
Asparagus UC-72, also known as Mary’s Granddaughter, is a perennial heirloom selected for uniform dark green spears, dependable garden performance, and long-term harvest potential. The spears are approximately 6–12 inches long with compact, tight heads and a characteristic ½-inch diameter. UC-72 offers heat and drought tolerance once established and documented resistance to Fusarium Wilt and Rust. Asparagus requires patience, taking approximately 3 years from seed to first harvest, then producing for many years with proper care. This packet contains 100 non-GMO, heirloom seeds.
Germination Rate: 85%. Test Date: 9/25. WILL.
Why Choose Asparagus UC-72?
- Uniform Dark Green Spears: UC-72 produces consistent spears with tight heads and a characteristic ½-inch diameter for attractive harvests.
- Mary’s Granddaughter: Grow a named asparagus selection with a trusted heirloom lineage and strong perennial potential.
- Heat and Drought Tolerance: Once established, UC-72 offers resilience in warm and drier growing conditions.
- Disease Resistance: This selection has documented resistance to Fusarium Wilt and Rust, two important asparagus diseases.
- Long-Term Perennial Harvest: With proper establishment and care, asparagus can produce for 10–15 years or more.
- Home Garden and Market Appeal: The uniform spear size and dark green color suit both home harvests and fresh-market presentation.
Planting Tips for Success
- Plan for Patience: Asparagus is a perennial crop. Allow approximately 3 years from seed to the first substantial harvest.
- Choose the Site: Plant in full sun, ideally where the asparagus bed can remain undisturbed for many years.
- Prepare the Soil: Use deep, fertile, well-drained soil. Asparagus roots develop extensively, so prepare the bed thoroughly before planting.
- Start the Seeds: Sow according to the packet directions and local planting calendar. Transplant young plants carefully after they are established.
- Allow Establishment: During the first and second growing seasons, allow the fern growth to develop fully so the crowns can build strength. Avoid harvesting during establishment.
- Water Consistently: Provide regular moisture during establishment and spear production. Established plants tolerate dry conditions better but still benefit from consistent care.
- Fertilize Thoughtfully: Top-dress with compost or a balanced fertilizer in spring before spears emerge and again after the final harvest.
- Harvest Carefully: Harvest spears when they reach the desired size and before the tips open. Stop harvesting when spears become noticeably thin so the plants can replenish their crowns.
- Support Ferns: Mature fern growth can become tall and may need support in windy areas.
Why Choose David's Garden Seeds®?
- Veteran-Owned: David's Garden Seeds® has supplied quality seeds since 2009.
- GO TEXAN Certified: We support local agriculture and communities through our commitment to Texas-based business.
- Integrity Pledge: We stand behind our commitment to safe, dependable seed and honest product information.
- Great Customer Service: David answers customer service questions, usually within a few minutes.
- Vegetable Seed License: David's Garden Seeds® has been granted a Vegetable Seed License for the State of Texas.
Cooking Methods
- Roasting: Toss harvested spears with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender with lightly caramelized edges.
- Grilling: Grill spears over medium-high heat, turning once, then finish with lemon juice or a simple vinaigrette.
- Steaming: Steam spears until tender for a clean, delicate side dish that pairs well with butter, hollandaise, or herbs.
- Sautéing: Sauté cut spears with olive oil, garlic, or shallots for a quick garden-fresh preparation.
- Freezing: Blanch harvested spears, cool them promptly, and freeze them for later use.
Order UC-72 Asparagus Seeds Today
Plant a perennial asparagus bed now and enjoy uniform dark green spears for years to come.
Nutritional Information
Per ½ cup (90g) cooked asparagus spears (harvested spears, not planting seeds):
- Calories: 20
- Total Fat: 0.2g (0% Daily Value)
- Sodium: 13mg (1% Daily Value)
- Total Carbohydrates: 3.7g (1% Daily Value)
- Dietary Fiber: 1.8g (6% Daily Value)
- Total Sugars: 1.2g
- Protein: 2.2g
- Folate: 134mcg (34% Daily Value)
- Vitamin K: 45.5mcg (38% Daily Value)
- Vitamin C: 7.5mg (8% Daily Value)
Important Disclosures
- Variety Disclaimer: Heirloom varieties may show natural variation in spear size, maturity, and performance. Results vary with climate, soil preparation, and gardening practices.
- Seed Storage: Store unused seeds in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Protect them from moisture and temperature swings.
- Planting Zones: Asparagus performs best where winters provide the dormancy needed for crown health. Consult local growing guidance for zone-specific timing and care.
- Long-Term Commitment: Asparagus requires 2–3 years of establishment before the first substantial harvest. Avoid harvesting during the first two growing seasons so crowns can develop fully.
Grow something beautiful. Grow something delicious. Grow with David's Garden Seeds®.
Recipe: Lemon-Roasted UC-72 Asparagus
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh asparagus spears, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove, ¼ teaspoon salt, ⅛ teaspoon black pepper, and optional grated Parmesan.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Trim the woody ends from the harvested asparagus spears.
- Arrange the spears in a single layer on a baking sheet. Toss with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Roast for 10–15 minutes, depending on spear thickness, until tender with lightly browned edges.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and finish with Parmesan if desired. Serve warm.