Know Your Seasonal Florida Produce
By: Melissa Scoggin, Community Health Leader
Florida might be known for oranges and citrus, but did you know that 34% of tomatoes in the U.S. also come from the sunshine state? Unless you grow your own fruit and vegetables, it might be hard to tell what’s in season. This short guide will help you know your seasonal Florida produce better, and in turn, save you money when you buy at the right time.
Spring
Spring is the perfect time to grow Florida avocados. Peppers also do well because of the longer growing season. Although, you do want to be careful going into summer as pests begin to appear with the warmer weather.
Here are some fruit and vegetables to start in the spring:
- Avocado
- Pepper
- Carrot
- Celery
- Cucumber
- Eggplant
- Potato
- Radish
- Snap Bean
- Tomato
Summer
You must be brave to garden in the summer heat, but with safety in mind it can be done. Beware of heat, sun exposure, and storms. However, if you’re looking to grow tropical fruit for lazy summer days, here are some of the top picks:
- Guava
- Mango
- Passionfruit
- Watermelon
Fall
Fall is many Florida gardeners’ preferred growing season. It might be a good idea to start some of your crops indoors and then replant them outside once it gets cooler. Whether you live in the north or south of Florida, Fall is the best season to get outside and into the garden.
- Avocado
- Carambola
- Cucumber
- Eggplant
- Grapefruit
- Mushroom
- Orange
- Peanut
- Squash
- Sweet Corn
- Tangerine
- Tomato
Winter
Because of the shorter days and cooler temperatures, winter is best for leafy greens and berries. Winter in Florida is typically warmer than in other parts of the country. Grow your own salad and try something new like arugula, beets, and shallots.
- Avocado
- Pepper
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Celery
- Cucumber
- Eggplant
- Mushroom
- Orange
- Radish
- Snap Bean
- Squash
- Strawberry
- Sweet Corn
- Tomato
Knowing when to buy produce is another way of saving money. Seasonal fruit and vegetables are cheapest in the grocery store. However, if you’re looking to start your own Florida garden, take a look at this helpful chart.
Follow Healthy St. Pete to learn more about how to make fruit and vegetables a part of your diet. Join the Healthy St. Pete Facebook group for more updates and healthy, affordable recipes.
