Check the asparagus spears to ensure they are firm and straight. Look where the bunch has been secured. If there are indentations where the rubber band or string was tied, avoid the asparagus as the bunch is starting to lose its freshness.
Check the tips, which should be tightly closed and either dark green or purple. Discard any that are light in color, beginning to turn yellow or have begun to turn to seed.
Look for wetness and slime, which is a sign the asparagus is past its prime. Fresh asparagus tips are firm and dry.
Smell the asparagus to see if it has a bad odor. Fresh spears have no smell. If you detect a bad odor, it is best to avoid the bunch.
Avoid thick, ridged spears, which tend to be old and often have less flavor than thinner, fresher spears.