Seasonal Produce Guide: Eating with the Seasons

Learn what’s in season throughout the year and how to make the most of local harvests. Discover peak times for your favorite fruits and vegetables, and find the best sources for fresh, local produce.

Why Eat Seasonally?

Better Food

• Peak flavor
• Maximum nutrition
• Optimal ripeness
• Natural variety

Better Value

• Lower prices
• Bulk opportunities
• Preservation options
• Local support

Better Environment

• Reduced transportation
• Natural growing cycles
• Local ecosystem support
• Sustainable practices

Spring (March-May)

Early Spring

• Asparagus
• Spring onions
• Pea shoots
• Ramps
• Microgreens

Late Spring

• Strawberries
• Radishes
• Lettuce
• Spinach
• Fresh herbs

Summer (June-August)

Early Summer

• Sugar snap peas
• Zucchini
• Cucumbers
• Fresh herbs
• Berries

Peak Summer

• Tomatoes
• Sweet corn
• Peppers
• Eggplant
• Stone fruits

Late Summer

• Melons
• Green beans
• Summer squash
• Fresh garlic
• New potatoes

Fall (September-November)

Early Fall

• Winter squash
• Apples
• Pears
• Late tomatoes
• Root crops

Late Fall

• Storage crops
• Hardy greens
• Brussels sprouts
• Cranberries
• Sweet potatoes

Winter (December-February)

Storage Crops

• Potatoes
• Onions
• Winter squash
• Root vegetables
• Cabbage

Winter Growing

• Greenhouse lettuce
• Microgreens
• Sprouts
• Hardy herbs
• Cold-frame greens

Where to Find Seasonal Produce

1. Local farms
2. Farm stands
3. Farmers markets
4. CSA programs
5. Food co-ops

Seasonal Shopping Tips

At the Market

1. Ask about peak seasons
2. Learn harvest schedules
3. Request storage tips
4. Try new varieties

Preservation Methods

1. Freezing
2. Canning
3. Dehydrating
4. Root cellaring

Making the Most of Each Season

Spring Strategy

• Plan garden
• Start subscriptions
• Visit early markets
• Try new greens

Summer Success

• Regular market visits
• Preservation planning
• Bulk purchasing
• Recipe exploration

Fall Focus

• Storage preparation
• Bulk buying
• Preservation projects
• Winter planning

Winter Wisdom

• Use storage crops
• Support winter markets
• Plan for spring
• Try indoor growing

Finding Seasonal Produce Near You

Use our directory to:

1. Search local farms
2. Check market schedules
3. Join CSA programs
4. Find food co-ops

Start exploring seasonal eating by connecting with local organic farms in your area. Many farms offer special programs and events throughout the growing season to help you make the most of each harvest.