Spring at Nourse Farm: Why We Love Asparagus Season

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There’s something about asparagus that feels like the true beginning of the growing season. After a long winter, those first green spears pushing up through the soil are one of the earliest signs that spring has arrived here at Nourse Farm.

Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) is a perennial crop, meaning once it’s established, it comes back year after year. The spears we harvest are actually young shoots—if we leave them, they grow into tall, feathery plants that help feed next season’s crop before dying back in the fall.

It’s a reminder that farming is always about thinking ahead—what we care for today supports what we’ll harvest tomorrow.

A Crop That Teaches Patience

Asparagus is not a quick crop. It takes about 2–3 years before we can begin harvesting, but once established, it can produce for 15–20 years.

Each spring:

  • Spears emerge quickly—sometimes growing inches in a day

  • Harvest season is short but abundant

  • After harvest, we let the plants “fern out” to recharge

That cycle is part of what makes asparagus so special—it’s fleeting, seasonal, and worth savoring.

How to Pick the Best Asparagus

Whether you’re visiting our farm stand or shopping locally, here’s what to look for:

  • Firm, straight spears (thin to about ½ inch thick)

  • Tightly closed tips

  • Deep green or vibrant purple color

  • Fresh, slightly moist cut ends

Skip anything limp, wilted, or overly thick and woody.

Pro tip from the farm: Fresh asparagus should almost “snap” when you bend it.

Keeping It Fresh

Asparagus is at its best when it’s fresh from the field—ideally within 48 hours.

To store at home:

  • Wrap the ends in a damp paper towel

  • Place in a bag in the fridge

  • Enjoy within a few days for the best flavor

Why Asparagus is So Good for You

Asparagus is one of those vegetables that checks every box—it’s simple, delicious, and packed with nutrients.

In just one cup, you’ll get:

  • 101% of your daily Vitamin K

  • 67% of Folate

  • 33% of Copper

  • Vitamins A and C

It’s naturally low in calories and supports:

  • Heart health

  • Digestion

  • Bone strength

  • Overall wellness

It also contains asparagusic acid, a natural antioxidant (and yes—it's what gives asparagus its famously unique after-effect!).

Simple Ways to Enjoy It

We love asparagus because it doesn’t need much—just a few simple ingredients and it shines.

Our favorite ways to prepare it:

  • Roasted: Toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper—finish with lemon or parmesan

  • Steamed: Lightly cook with garlic and a pinch of seasoning

  • Raw: Shave into salads or serve with a dip

  • Entertaining: Wrap with prosciutto for an easy appetizer

Why It Matters to Eat It in Season

Asparagus has a short window, and that’s part of what makes it special. Eating it in season—fresh from a local farm—means better flavor, better nutrition, and a deeper connection to where your food comes from.

At Nourse Farm, asparagus season is one of our favorite reminders that everything is starting up again—the fields, the markets, and the community coming back together.

Come Experience Spring at the Farm

Whether you’re stopping by for fresh produce, joining our CSA, or just looking to spend a little time outdoors, asparagus season is a beautiful time to visit.

It’s simple, it’s seasonal, and it’s one of the best tastes of spring.