What to look for when buying asparagus By NZ Asparagus on 09/07/2015 in Facts & Info Choose straight firm green stems. Select fresh, clean product with trimmed ends and a minimum of white butt. Fresh asparagus is ‘squeaky’ – when the spears are gently rubbed they squeak; old asparagus is rubbery and doesn’t squeak. Did you know How to store asparagus