Florida-Grown Vegetables and Fruits Thrive in Winter and Spring
In partnership with: Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
While most states brave cold winter temps, Florida’s agricultural harvest boasts a bounty of fresh fruits and vegetables throughout the winter and into spring. Like people that flock to the Sunshine State for a little warmth, the fruits and vegetables enjoy those tropical temps as well.
Many Florida commodities are available from winter through spring, such as sweet corn, bell peppers, tomatoes, radishes, strawberries and more, as well as the famed Florida citrus.
See more: Citrus Growers Think Outside the Crate in Pursuit of New Fruit
Then, several spring crops lead the domestic markets, including blueberries, watermelon and cantaloupe.
In addition, Florida accounts for more than 36% of U.S. value of production of sweet corn and watermelon. Bell peppers and grapefruit account for 33% of the U.S. market value, and strawberries are 12% of the U.S. market value.
Florida produce is typically in season from December through June with the season for many items being quite extended. Florida’s fresh market tomatoes comprise more than 50% of the market tomatoes in the U.S. Florida tomato season kicks off in October and runs through June, meaning people throughout the U.S. can keep enjoying those tasty tomato and mayo sandwiches and other favorite tomato recipes for several months. Florida’s climate allows watermelon growers to reach the domestic market first in April, along with blueberries and sweet corn.
When most places are winding down in October and November, Florida farmers prep their fields for winter crops, taking advantage of subtropical temperatures that allow for longer growing seasons when other states are unable to produce.
Purchasing “Fresh From Florida” supports farmers throughout the state and helps agriculture continue to thrive. To learn more about what’s in season and discover recipes featuring Florida’s top commodities, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.
See more: New-to-Florida Crops Include Artichokes, Finger Limes and Blackberries