Frequently Asked Questions

You may have questions. We definitely have answers!
Why do you farm organically?
Organic agriculture is a holistic philosophy which uses sustainable farming methods. Organic producers agree not to use GMOs; synthetic pesticides, herbicides or fungicides; irradiation; chemical fertilizers; sewage sludge or antibiotics.

At Mazak Farms, we feel strongly that creating a product without the use of any of the above matters; it matters to our health today, and it matters to our health tomorrow.

What does certified organic mean?

Mazak Farms participates in the organic certification process annually. We are certified by EcoCert Canada. EcoCert sends an inspector to the farm every spring to ensure that the farm is meeting all of the Canadian Organic Standards. This is a lengthy and costly process, but an important one that ensures the integrity of organic products. When an operation has earned certification, you can be assured the product is legitimately and reliably organic. 2024 marked Mazak Farm’s 25th year of organic certification!

Eco-cert

How is Mazak Farms organic asparagus picked?

All by hand- yes, for real! All 7 acres of our asparagus is hand-picked one spear at a time! Each spring, we hire a team of local people to work in our harvest. Typically, our staff has consisted of local students who are excited about the local and organic food movements and seeking some experience working on a farm.

Who is involved in the farm?
Mazak Farms is a true family effort.  Even though the farm is owned and run by Barry and Sarah, Rick and Mary Mazak remain a vital part of the farm operation and its success.  It is guaranteed that whenever you come to the farm, you will speak with one of the four of us.  We work closely to ensure the needs of the family and farm are always our top priority.
When is asparagus in season and available?
Asparagus season typically begins the first week of May and runs until approximately the middle of June.  There have been seasons when we have started earlier and ended later, as it is soley dependant on Mother Nature.  We will post regular updates about how the season is progressing through social media and our nifty website.

Once the season starts, we also place our asparagus sign at the end of our road (Longhurst Line).  We know our customers look for it!

When does Mazak Farms hand pick their asparagus?

We begin picking first thing in the morning, and the weather determines how long the day’s harvest will take.  In ideal conditions we are able to harvest the same fields twice in one day!  Asparagus has been known to group up to 6 inches in one day!  You can literally watch it grow.

How do you store asparagus?
Asparagus likes to be stored in water and in a cool place.  You can do this by wrapping the bottom ends (not the spear) in a moist paper towel or ideally standing the asparagus upright in a shallow dish of water in your fridge.  Asparagus lasts in your fridge for approximately one week.
Can you freeze asparagus?
Yes, you can freeze asparagus. Some people prefer to blanch their asparagus prior to freezing, while others freeze asparagus in the raw state.  Our family loves asparagus soup and in the spring we make and freeze asparagus soup puree. Nothing beats asparagus soup on a cold winter’s day!
When is Mazak Farms open?

Mazak Farms is open year round with seasonal hours. Check our Contact Us page for current hours. Please check our social media for any updates to hours. Occasionally our hours change, based on the season.  Feel free to call the farm at 519-633-4634 to confirm hours and availability.

Do you sell asparagus plants?

No. We do not sell asparagus crowns, which are the roots that asparagus grows from.