Asparagus season is short, and that is exactly what makes it special. For a few weeks each year, fresh local BC asparagus shows up at our farm market at 3443 Benvoulin Road — crisp, tender, and full of the flavour that makes asparagus season worth looking forward to. If you have been searching for fresh asparagus in Kelowna or Okanagan asparagus at its best, this is the season to plan a visit.
What makes fresh local asparagus worth seeking out
The difference with fresh local asparagus is immediate. Local BC asparagus snaps when you bend it. The tips are tight, the colour is vivid, and the flavour is grassy and clean.
Freshness makes a real difference with asparagus — the closer to harvest, the better the flavour and texture. Once the season kicks off, we restock our shelves several times a day so what you are picking up is always at its best.
Where to buy fresh asparagus in Kelowna
Don-O-Ray Farms at 3443 Benvoulin Road in Kelowna’s Lower Mission is a convenient spot to find fresh local asparagus in BC during the season. Our farm market carries seasonal produce alongside Nature’s Kitchen products and other market favourites — all in one easy stop.
If you are planning a visit during the season, keep in mind that our fresh BC strawberries are another local favourite worth picking up at the same time.
What to do with fresh asparagus
Fresh asparagus barely needs cooking to shine. Here are some favourite ways to enjoy it:
- Roast it simply. Olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon, and a hot oven. Finish with shaved parmesan if you want to make it feel special.
- Throw it on the grill. Asparagus on the barbecue alongside steak or chicken is an Okanagan summer staple.
- Pair it with eggs. Sautéed asparagus with poached eggs and good butter is one of the best quick meals of the season.
- Make a spring risotto. Fold asparagus into creamy Parmesan risotto with fresh herbs for something a little more involved.
- Blend it into soup. A simple asparagus soup with stock and a splash of cream is comforting and makes the most of a big bunch.
- Pickle it. Pickled asparagus makes a fantastic snack, garnish, or addition to a charcuterie board.
How to pick good asparagus at the market
When you are shopping for fresh asparagus in Kelowna, here is what to look for:
- Snap, not bend. A fresh spear should feel rigid and snap cleanly.
- Tight tips. Closed, compact tips are a good sign of freshness and quality.
- Fresh cut ends. Look for moist, clean ends rather than dried or woody ones.
- Vivid colour. Good asparagus should look bright and lively.
How to keep asparagus fresh at home
Asparagus dries out quickly, so treat it right when you get home:
- Trim about an inch off the bottom of the spears.
- Stand them upright in a glass or jar with a small amount of cold water.
- Loosely cover the tops with a plastic bag.
- Keep in the fridge and use within a couple of days for the best flavour.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is asparagus season in BC?
BC asparagus season typically runs from April through June, though timing can vary depending on the year. Follow us on social media to be the first to know when it is in stock.
Where can I buy fresh local asparagus in Kelowna?
Don-O-Ray Farms at 3443 Benvoulin Road in Kelowna’s Lower Mission carries fresh local BC asparagus during the season. We are open 9 am to 7 pm, seven days a week, throughout the growing season.
How much asparagus should I buy?
As a general guide, plan for about 200g per person as a side dish. If you are cooking for a crowd or want leftovers for a frittata or pasta, buy more — fresh asparagus goes fast once the season starts.
Can I freeze fresh asparagus?
Yes. Blanch the spears in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, transfer to ice water to stop the cooking, pat dry, and freeze flat on a baking sheet before transferring to bags. Frozen asparagus works well in soups, stir-fries, and pasta dishes.
Visit Don-O-Ray Farms this asparagus season
Asparagus season does not last long — and fresh local BC asparagus is one of those things genuinely worth looking forward to each year. Visit Don-O-Ray Farms at 3443 Benvoulin Road in Kelowna when the season kicks off. Once it starts, we restock several times a day, so there is always something fresh waiting for you.
Follow us on social media to stay up to date on what is in season and when asparagus arrives at the market.
