Produce is always cheapest when you buy it in season for your location. While I can not list every single area of the country and what is in season, this is a general over-view of what is currently in season for most of the United States. If you only buy local produce, not all of this will be available to you, but if you do purchase from stores, this is what should be the least expensive and the most fresh right now, even if it’s being trucked in from another state. Use this as a guide for Purchasing large amounts from non-local farmer’s markets for canning, freezing, lacto-fermenting, dehydrating and preserving. If you can purchase locally and it is within your budget, please do. However, if you are new to eating seasonally or don’t have a local farmer, this list will help you make the best purchasing decisions.
Artichoke
Asparagus
Avocado, Haas
Beets
Broccoli
Cabbage
Cauliflower
Carrots
Celery
Collards
Fennel
Grapefruit
Green onion
Kale (end)
Leeks (end)
Limes
Mushrooms
Navel orange
Onions
Ramps
Peas
Radish
Rhubarb
Salad greens
Spinach (end)
Strawberries
Swiss chard
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Before I head to the store I always check out http://www.eattheseasons.com/index.htm they list what is in season in the U.S. Then when I head to the store at least I can have a game plan. I always check the labels too- it is amazing how many things are in season in the states but the stores still get them from other countries.
Thanks, KerryAnn, I printed it to take shopping with me. I have no clue about this stuff.