British asparagus season is here
Food Editor
Emily Lambe
You know spring has officially sprung with the arrival of our British asparagus. Some of our British asparagus is sourced from the Chinn family, on their farms in the beautiful Wye Valley. The light sandy soil in the sheltered valley creates the perfect conditions for growing the best-tasting asparagus. Plus, the cooler climate means there’s time for the flavours to develop.

What is asparagus?
Asparagus is an earthy, green vegetable grown during the spring. It’s a herbaceous perennial plant, and the parts we eat are actually young shoots of a lily plant. It takes patience to grow, as it can take up to four years to produce edible spears. Asparagus spears should be firm and straight with pointed tips. It can be steamed, grilled or roasted and will become deliciously tender once cooked.

When is asparagus in season?
Asparagus is typically grown in Britain from late April until the end of June. At M&S, we’re able to get a head start on asparagus season to deliver the best spears from early spring. Chris Chinn uses modern farming techniques, such as polythene covers and drip irrigation, and the farm’s south-facing slopes to grow asparagus for longer. This means he can harvest the first spears in February and continue to grow them through to the beginning of July.

Where we source our asparagus
Chris Chinn and his fourth-generation farming family have been supplying us with British asparagus since 2005 – because nobody understands this stunning spring crop like they do. The Chinn family are committed to working in harmony with nature. “We have grass waterways within our fields and add wildflower mixes to attract pollinators,” says Chris. They also work with Cranfield University, experimenting with winter crops to build up organic matter, improve the soil’s microbiome and increase earthworm numbers because, as Chris says, “Healthy soil grows healthy food.”

How to use asparagus
Our succulent asparagus can be used in everything from brunch recipes to luxurious dinners and savoury sides. Start the day with this asparagus and gruyère omelette, with soft, aromatic herbs and a leafy side salad. Asparagus is the star of the show of this asparagus and warm grain salad loaded with juicy Santini tomatoes, Italian mozzarella, and hearty grains. For a 10-minute asparagus side, pan-fry with fiery chilli, garlic and toasted almond flakes. Whip up a filling dinner with this creamy salmon, asparagus and pea risotto or this fragrant asparagus and prawn coconut noodle soup.

This is not just asparagus
We only choose the best asparagus from M&S Select Farms for the pick of the crop. Our trusted farmers supply spears with the best texture and flavour to stock our Foodhalls. With unique farming techniques, we’re able to grow asparagus earlier and for longer than the typical asparagus season. To learn more about seasonal fruit and veg, check out our guide to British produce.
Published 3.8.2025
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