3105 16th Sideroad
King City, ON L7B 1A3
(705) 984-8894
www.jcagriorchards.ca/royal-orchards/
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6711 Angler Line,
Dover Centre, ON N0P 1L0
www.fleurderoy.com
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Rhubarb is one of Ontario’s most beloved spring crops — and one of its most underrated. Those long, tart crimson stalks are the first true sign that the growing season has arrived, and every May, a handful of dedicated Ontario farms open their gates for u-pick rhubarb season.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker with a strawberry-rhubarb pie on your mind, or you’ve never picked rhubarb before and you’re curious what the fuss is about, this guide has everything you need to find a farm, pick the best stalks, and make the most of your harvest.
Rhubarb is one of the earliest crops to emerge each spring, which makes it a favourite among farmers and foragers alike. In Ontario, u-pick rhubarb season generally runs from mid-May through June, though this can vary by region and weather conditions.
Unlike strawberries or apples, rhubarb can sometimes be harvested twice in a season — an early spring harvest and a second flush in early summer. Check with your local farm for the most current availability.
💡 Pro Tip: Rhubarb season is short and less widely advertised than strawberry season. Follow your local farm on social media and sign up for email lists so you don’t miss opening day! |
Rhubarb farms are scattered across the province. Here are some of the best regions to look, along with links to find farms near you:
Simcoe County is a go-to destination for spring u-pick farms of all kinds, and rhubarb is no exception. Just north of the GTA, it’s an easy day trip for Toronto-area families looking for a taste of early summer on the farm. 👉 Find farms in Simcoe County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/simcoe/
Durham is one of the most accessible regions from Toronto’s east end, with farms in and around Oshawa, Pickering, and Clarington that often grow rhubarb alongside their early berry crops. 👉 Find farms in Durham County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/durham/
Known as Ontario’s Garden, Norfolk County has rich growing conditions that make it ideal for early spring crops. Several farms here grow rhubarb alongside their strawberry and asparagus crops, making for a perfect early-season farm haul. 👉 Find farms in Norfolk County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/norfolk/
The Halton and Hamilton areas offer several family-friendly farms with spring u-pick options. Many farms in this region combine rhubarb with early strawberry picking, so you can often get both in a single visit in June. 👉 Find farms in Halton County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/halton/
Eastern Ontario farms tend to open a little later in the season, but rhubarb is a reliable spring staple in this region. Ottawa-area farms often combine rhubarb with early spring vegetables, making for a great farm market experience. 👉 Find farms in Ottawa → pickyourownontario.ca/category/ottawa/
⚠️ Important: Rhubarb leaves are toxic and should NEVER be eaten. Only the stalks are edible. Most farms will trim the leaves for you at the field, or you can cut them off at home and compost them. |
Rhubarb has a delicious, tart flavour that pairs beautifully with sweet ingredients. Here are the most popular ways to use a fresh haul:
💡 Rhubarb + Strawberry Tip: If you’re visiting a farm in early-to-mid June, you can often pick both rhubarb AND strawberries on the same visit — perfect for a classic pie! Check our strawberry picking guide for more tips: pickyourownontario.ca/blog/strawberry-picking-ontario/ |
Is rhubarb a fruit or a vegetable?
Botanically, rhubarb is a vegetable — it’s the stalk of a plant, not a fruit. However, it’s almost always used in sweet applications like pies, jams, and desserts, which is why most people think of it as a fruit.
How much rhubarb should I pick?
A good rule of thumb is 1–2 pounds per person for fresh use. If you’re planning to bake or freeze, pick more — 4–6 pounds gives you plenty to work with. Rhubarb freezes beautifully, so there’s rarely such a thing as too much.
How long does fresh rhubarb last?
Fresh rhubarb stalks last about 1–2 weeks in the fridge when stored loosely wrapped. Remove the leaves immediately (they’re toxic) and don’t wash until you’re ready to use. For longer storage, chop and freeze — frozen rhubarb keeps for up to a year.
Do I need to book ahead for rhubarb picking?
Most rhubarb farms don’t require reservations, but it’s always worth calling or checking social media before you visit — availability can change quickly, especially later in the season.
Can I pick rhubarb if I’m pregnant?
The stalks are generally considered safe to eat in normal food quantities during pregnancy. However, large amounts of rhubarb are not recommended. As always, check with your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns.
Rhubarb season is short and sweet — and it’s happening right now across Ontario. Whether you’re planning a pie, a batch of jam, or just a fun spring outing, there’s a u-pick farm waiting for you. 👉 Find a U-Pick Farm Near You by County →
And follow us on Instagram @upickontario and Pinterest @upickontario for daily farm updates and seasonal tips!
Of all the crops that emerge in Ontario each spring, asparagus holds a special place. It’s one of the first vegetables to push through the soil after a long winter — and for just a few precious weeks each May and June, a small number of Ontario farms open their gates for u-pick asparagus season.
Fresh asparagus picked straight from the field is a revelation. Sweet, tender, and nothing like the limp bunches you find at the grocery store weeks after harvest, farm-fresh asparagus is worth going out of your way for. Here’s everything you need to know to find a farm, pick like a pro, and make the most of your spring haul.
Asparagus is one of the earliest vegetables of the Ontario growing season, typically appearing in May and lasting only 6–8 weeks before the plants need to go to fern to store energy for next year.
Asparagus season is one of the shortest of any Ontario crop — most farms are only harvesting for 4–6 weeks. Once the shoots start going to fern, picking stops for the year.
💡 Pro Tip: Asparagus season can start 1–2 weeks early or late depending on spring soil temperatures. A warm April means an earlier season. Always check the farm’s social media before heading out — availability can change day to day! |
Asparagus thrives in sandy, well-drained soil — which is why Norfolk County and the Lake Erie shoreline produce some of Ontario’s best. Here are the top regions to explore:
Norfolk County is arguably Ontario’s asparagus capital. The sandy loam soil along Lake Erie’s north shore is ideal for asparagus growing, and the region has a long history of commercial asparagus production. Several Norfolk farms offer u-pick asparagus each spring, and it’s worth the drive from anywhere in Southwestern or Central Ontario. 👉 Find farms in Norfolk County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/norfolk/
Just west of Norfolk, Elgin County shares the same fertile lakeshore soils and has several farms growing asparagus alongside other early spring crops. St. Thomas and surrounding areas are good places to look for u-pick options. 👉 Find farms in Elgin County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/elgin/
Simcoe County’s well-drained soils north of the GTA support a variety of spring crops, including asparagus. Several farms in the Barrie, Innisfil, and Bradford areas offer spring u-pick options that can include asparagus alongside early greens and rhubarb. 👉 Find farms in Simcoe County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/simcoe/
Eastern Ontario has a strong tradition of market gardening, and asparagus is a spring staple at farms throughout the Ottawa Valley. The season starts a little later here — typically late May — but the farms tend to be less crowded and the experience very relaxed. 👉 Find farms in Ottawa → pickyourownontario.ca/category/ottawa/
Southwestern Ontario’s agricultural heartland includes some excellent asparagus-growing country. The flat, well-drained fields of Huron and Perth counties support strong spring vegetable production, and u-pick options can be found with a little searching. 👉 Find farms in Huron County → pickyourownontario.ca/category/huron/
Asparagus is one of the easiest crops to pick — but there are a few things worth knowing to get the best spears and protect the plant for next season:
💡 Freshness tip: Asparagus loses sweetness quickly after harvest as its sugars convert to starch. Try to eat or cook your picked asparagus within 1–2 days for the best flavour. Stand the spears upright in a glass of water in the fridge, like flowers, to keep them fresh longer. |
Farm-fresh asparagus needs very little done to it — the flavour speaks for itself. Here are the best ways to enjoy your harvest:
💡 Spring Harvest Combo: Asparagus and rhubarb season overlap in May–June, so you can often pick both on the same farm visit! Check our rhubarb picking guide too: pickyourownontario.ca/blog/rhubarb-picking-ontario/ |
Why is asparagus season so short?
Asparagus plants can only be harvested for 6–8 weeks each spring. After that, the plants need to grow into tall ferns to photosynthesize and store energy in their roots for next year’s crop. Cutting the ferns would weaken the plant and reduce future harvests — so farmers stop picking once the season window closes.
How much asparagus should I pick?
A pound of asparagus serves about 2–3 people as a side dish. For a family of four, 2–3 pounds is a good starting point. If you want to freeze some, pick 5–8 pounds — asparagus freezes very well once blanched.
How do I store fresh-picked asparagus?
Stand the spears upright in a jar or glass with about an inch of water, like a bouquet of flowers, and refrigerate. This keeps them fresh for 3–5 days. Alternatively, wrap the cut ends in a damp paper towel and store in a bag in the crisper drawer.
Do I need to peel asparagus?
Generally no — especially for farm-fresh asparagus that you’ve snapped at the natural break point. The tender part above the snap point doesn’t need peeling. For very thick spears, you can peel the bottom inch or two if you prefer, but it’s not necessary.
Is u-pick asparagus available across all of Ontario?
U-pick asparagus is less common than u-pick berries or apples — it requires more patience and know-how to pick correctly. However farms do exist across the province, especially in Norfolk, Elgin, Simcoe, and the Ottawa region. Use our farm finder to search by county for the most up-to-date listings.
Asparagus season is one of Ontario’s most fleeting — blink and you’ll miss it. But if you time it right, there’s nothing better than a basket of just-picked spears and a plan to roast them for dinner tonight.
👉 Find a U-Pick Farm Near You by County →
Follow us on Instagram @upickontario and Pinterest @upickontario for seasonal farm updates all year long! 🌿
There’s no better way to welcome spring than stepping into a field of freshly bloomed tulips and picking your own bouquet straight from the farm. Ontario’s u-pick tulip season is short, spectacular, and absolutely worth planning your calendar around.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic spring outing, a fun family day trip, or simply the most beautiful photos you’ll take all year, Ontario’s tulip farms deliver. This guide covers everything you need to know — when the season blooms, where to go, what to bring, and how to find a tulip farm near you.
Ontario tulip season typically runs from late April through mid-May, making it one of the earliest and shortest u-pick seasons of the year. The exact timing depends heavily on spring temperatures — a warm April can push blooms two weeks earlier, while a cold snap can delay them.
Most farms are only open for 2 to 4 weeks, and peak bloom can last just a matter of days. This is the most time-sensitive u-pick season in Ontario — when farms announce they’re open, don’t wait!
💡 Pro Tip: Follow your local tulip farm on Instagram and Facebook before the season starts. Farms post bloom updates daily during peak season and often sell out of time slots very quickly — especially on weekends. |
Tulip farms have been popping up across Ontario in recent years, with u-pick fields now available in many regions. Here are the best areas to explore:
With its mild climate and early springs, Niagara is one of the best regions in Ontario for tulip picking. The combination of fertile soil and warm southern exposure means Niagara farms often open before anywhere else in the province — sometimes as early as late April. 👉 Find tulip farms in Niagara County →
Just north of the GTA, Simcoe County has become a popular destination for spring farm visits. The rolling countryside makes for a stunning backdrop for tulip fields, and it’s an easy day trip from Toronto, Barrie, and the surrounding areas. 👉 Find tulip farms in Simcoe County →
Durham’s proximity to Toronto’s east end makes it a convenient option for families and couples looking for a quick spring escape. Several farms in and around Oshawa, Pickering, and Clarington offer u-pick flower experiences in the spring. 👉 Find tulip farms in Durham County →
Eastern Ontario is home to some of the province’s most impressive tulip experiences. Ottawa is famous for its Canadian Tulip Festival, and the surrounding region has embraced u-pick tulip farms as a natural extension of that tradition. The season starts a little later here — usually mid-May — but the farms tend to be beautiful and less crowded than those closer to Toronto. 👉 Find tulip farms in Ottawa → 👉 Find tulip farms in Prescott & Russell →
The Halton and Hamilton areas offer great options for GTA west-end residents looking for a spring farm day. Several flower farms in this region open for u-pick tulips in late April and early May before transitioning to summer crops. 👉 Find tulip farms in Halton County → 👉 Find tulip farms in Hamilton County →
A little preparation makes for a much better experience. Here’s what to pack:
💡 Pro Tip: Tulips continue to grow after cutting! Place them in a tall vase so they have room to stretch. They’ll reach toward the light, so rotate your vase daily for an even arrangement. |
How much does u-pick tulip picking cost in Ontario?
Most farms charge per stem, typically ranging from $1.00 to $2.50 per tulip. Some farms offer bundle pricing (e.g. 10 stems for $15). Entry fees vary — some farms are free to enter and charge only for what you pick, while others charge a small admission fee.
Do I need to book ahead for tulip picking?
Many Ontario tulip farms now require advance reservations, especially on weekends during peak bloom. This is the most booking-sensitive u-pick crop — slots can sell out days in advance. Always check the farm’s website or social media before heading out.
How long does tulip season last in Ontario?
Most tulip farms are open for just 2 to 4 weeks, and peak bloom can last only a few days depending on weather. Once temperatures rise and blooms fully open, the season moves quickly. This is genuinely the most time-sensitive u-pick season of the year — don’t leave it too long!
Can I bring my dog to a tulip farm?
Policies vary by farm. Some welcome leashed dogs, others don’t for crop protection reasons. Always check before you go — and note that tulips are toxic to dogs if ingested, so keep that in mind if you do bring your pup.
What do tulip farms in Ontario grow besides tulips?
Many u-pick flower farms offer a variety of spring blooms alongside tulips — including daffodils, hyacinths, ranunculus, and anemones. Later in the season, the same farms often transition to summer flowers like sunflowers, zinnias, and dahlias. Check your local farm’s listings to see what’s available.
Ontario has u-pick tulip farms from Niagara to Ottawa and everywhere in between. Use our farm finder to search by county and find a farm near you — and remember, tulip season moves fast. Don’t wait too long! 👉 Find a U-Pick Tulip Farm Near You →
Follow us on Instagram @upickontario and Pinterest @upickontario for daily bloom updates, farm features, and all things u-pick Ontario! 🌿
Don’t see your region listed? Browse all Ontario counties in our farm finder — we have listings province-wide!