Florida-Grown Ingredients Provide Fresh Flavors for Every Occasion
In partnership with: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
From January through December, Florida farms produce a variety of the fruits and vegetables that make seasonal celebrations special.
Beginning the first of the year, fields across the state are brimming with fresh and healthy leafy greens like lettuce, endive and escarole, along with other produce such as bell peppers, snap beans, cucumbers, celery and squash.
When most states are still months away from harvesting sweet, juicy strawberries, Florida’s strawberry season begins in early winter, peaking just in time for Valentine’s Day in February. Whether enjoyed plain, dipped in chocolate or baked into a cake, Florida-grown strawberries sweeten the celebration across the state and nation.
For St. Patrick’s Day in March, filling your plate with green is easy thanks to the Florida farmers growing cabbage, spinach, broccoli and more this time of year.
Throughout spring, Florida fruit farmers harvest blueberries, which make the perfect addition to seasonal menus for Easter and Mother’s Day. During the 2023 season, the state’s blueberry harvest weighed in at nearly 11,000 tons, providing plenty of berries for everything from cakes and muffins to salads and smoothies. Sweet corn would also be a delicious addition to any menu with the peak season taking place March through April.
See more: Florida-Grown Vegetables and Fruits Thrive in Winter and Spring
Summertime wouldn’t be the same without watermelon, and Florida accounts for 34% of the total U.S. value of production of this refreshing fruit. Grown throughout the state from April through early July, local watermelons are a must for beach days, backyard cookouts and Fourth of July picnics.
By November, Florida farms are harvesting several Thanksgiving feast staples, including green beans, sweet corn and squash. Showcasing these fresh, locally grown veggies on the holiday table is the perfect way to give thanks to Florida farmers while celebrating the season’s bounty.
Grown throughout winter, Florida citrus takes the spotlight during the holidays. The state accounts for 36% of the nation’s total citrus production, providing fresh oranges and grapefruits for holiday celebrations at home and across the country.
No matter the season, choosing “Fresh From Florida” fruits and vegetables throughout the year supports local farmers while helping the state’s agriculture industry continue to thrive.
Learn more about what’s in season and find recipes starring Florida-grown ingredients at FreshFromFlorida.com.
See more: Top Florida Agriculture Facts From the 2024 Census of Agriculture