Guelph ON, – Locally grown Ontario asparagus is now hitting store shelves and farmers markets across Ontario. This first fruit and vegetable crop of the season marks the unofficial start of spring and the abundance of local fruit and vegetable options that will soon be available from Ontario growers.
“It’s always an exciting and busy time for us,” says Mike Chromczak, an asparagus grower and Vice-Chair of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association (OFVGA). “There’s a sense of pride when you see the first green spears begin to emerge. It’s a relatively quick growing season, lasting six to eight weeks, but we’re working full tilt during that time, harvesting almost every day to provide fresh top-quality asparagus for Ontarians to enjoy.”
Sustainability is at the core of Ontario’s asparagus farming, with growers employing techniques like planting cover crops to naturally control weeds and prevent soil erosion. Growers are also reducing the carbon footprint of harvesting, such as transitioning to electric versions of the specialized carts workers sit in as they harvest asparagus by hand, for example.
Local asparagus season offers a great opportunity for consumers to support sustainable agriculture around Ontario. By choosing locally grown, residents can reduce their carbon footprint, support local growers and enjoy the unmatched freshness and taste that comes from produce grown close to home.