The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers' Association (OFVGA) is proud to announce the arrival of Ontario-grown asparagus, marking the unofficial start of spring in the province. This first seasonal offering signifies the abundance of fresh, local produce soon to come from Ontario's dedicated growers.
"The emergence of asparagus is an exciting and busy time for us," says Mike Chromczak, asparagus grower and Vice-Chair of the OFVGA. "There's a sense of accomplishment when we see those first green spears appear. The asparagus season is relatively short, lasting only six to eight weeks, but during that time, we're working diligently to harvest fresh, top-quality asparagus for Ontarians to enjoy."
Sustainability is a core principle for Ontario's asparagus farms. Growers utilize cover crops for natural weed control and soil erosion prevention. Additionally, they are committed to reducing their carbon footprint by transitioning to electric harvesting carts, exemplifying responsible agricultural practices.
Consumers have a valuable opportunity to support sustainable agriculture within Ontario by choosing locally grown asparagus. This not only reduces their carbon footprint but also ensures unmatched freshness and taste associated with produce grown close to home.
Looking to incorporate asparagus into your spring menus? Here are some suggestions for this versatile and delicious vegetable:
- Grilled Asparagus: A perfect side dish for those first outdoor gatherings with friends and family.
- Appetizer Delight: Steam or grill asparagus and pair it with a dip of your choice.
- Soup Innovation: Add a unique twist to your favorite vegetable soup recipe with chopped asparagus.
"Asparagus offers exceptional value for its nutritional content," Chromczak continues. "It's a nutrient-rich vegetable priced competitively with most produce department items. Each season reminds us of the hard work and dedication involved in harvest, but it's always rewarding to see the enthusiasm surrounding local asparagus."
From early May to early June, Ontario asparagus will be readily available at farmers markets, grocery stores, and restaurants across the province. Visit the Asparagus Farmers of Ontario website for more information about sustainable asparagus growing.