Newsletters & Blog

May 2025

A Celebration of Michigan's Spring Gem

National Asparagus Month

May is National Asparagus Month, honoring Michigan’s prized spring vegetable. Asparagus thrives in the state's perfect growing conditions, particularly in Oceana County, known as the 'Asparagus Capital of the World.' The county is also home to the National Asparagus Festival, which includes a parade and the crowning of the Asparagus Queen. Michigan’s asparagus season runs from May to June, offering fresh, hand-harvested spears at their peak.

Michigan’s climate, with its rich soils and cool temperatures, makes it ideal for growing high-quality asparagus. The state is a top U.S. producer, known for its flavorful and tender spears, which are packed and shipped immediately to maintain freshness. Asparagus is low in calories and rich in vitamins A, C, E, K, folate, and fiber. It has antioxidant properties, supports the immune system, and aids digestion due to its high-water content. It's a healthy, delicious addition to any diet.

Connecting Michigan’s Youth to Agriculture

National Asparagus Month is also a great time to educate Michigan’s youth about the importance of local food and agriculture. Schools across the state offer lessons on food production, sustainability, and the health benefits of fresh produce. Here are some resources to explore with your class:

Grades K-2

Students investigate different food crops and how they grow.

Crops on the Farm

Grades 3-5

Students develop a working vocabulary regarding food, categorize foods by their sources, examine grocery ads, learn about food production, and apply what they learned by analyzing foods they eat at a particular meal.

Edible Numbers

Grades 6-8

Students will learn the concept of pH, and the impact of acids and bases on plant pigments, explore the impact of acids and bases on plant cell structure, and discover the health benefits of consuming vegetables.

FoodMASTER Middle: Vegetables

Grades 9-12

Students will describe the farm-to-table process of common fruits and vegetables, recognize the nutrients fruits and vegetables provide, and evaluate methods of food storage and preparation for preserving nutrients.

Fruits and Vegetables: The Right Pick for Vitamins and Minerals

Grades K-12

Additional Lessons and Resources

Celebrate Michigan Asparagus

This National Asparagus Month, enjoy the fresh, flavorful benefits of Michigan-grown asparagus, whether from a local market or your own garden, and support Michigan farmers!