Georgia Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables in December

A Guide to Fresh Produce Selection

This Article is Part of our Georgia Seasonal Fruit & Veg Calendar

December in Georgia brings with it a shift in the agricultural landscape, as many of the state's fruits and vegetables reach peak ripeness or become available from storage. The state's diverse climate and topography allow for a variety of produce to flourish even during the cooler months. Cauliflower (how long does cauliflower last?), for instance, is in season from October and remains available through December, offering a versatile vegetable option for winter dishes.

Meanwhile, leafy greens such as collard greens (how long do collard greens last?) thrive in the cooler weather, their harvest extending all the way from October through June, making them a staple in Southern winter cooking. Root vegetables also make a strong showing during December. These earthy, nutrient-dense selections are harvested in the fall and often available well into the winter months, stored to last through seasons when fresh produce is less abundant.

Georgia's Climate and Seasonal Produce Overview

Georgia's diverse climate allows for a variety of produce to be grown in winter, with December marking a notable period in its seasonal growing calendar.

Winter Produce Characteristics

In December, Georgia's winter ushers in colder temperatures and shorter days, which directly impact the types of produce that can sustainably grow during this month. Seasonal produce during this time needs to withstand the frost and thrive in cooler conditions. Root vegetables, leafy greens, and some hearty fruits are typical of the region's winter offerings. These include:

Root Vegetables: carrots (how long do carrots last?), beets (how long do beets last?), turnips
Leafy Greens: collards, kale, mustard greens
Hearty Fruits: apples (how long do apples last?), pecans

These crops are valued for their ability to flourish in the cold and provide fresh, local options for consumers and markets.

Understanding December's Growing Season

Georgia's growing season in December is influenced by the state’s variable climate, which ranges from subtropical in the south to more temperate in the north. The first frost generally arrives by November, so by December, farmers are primarily harvesting winter-hardy varieties. The soil remains rich and, with appropriate agricultural practices, continues to yield quality produce.

Moreover, the approach of the holiday season in December can affect demand for certain types of produce, like pecans and greens, which are popular in festive dishes. Farmers align their practices to ensure an adequate supply of these seasonal favorites.

Fruits Available in December

In December, Georgian residents can enjoy a variety of seasonal fruits that are both flavorful and nutritious, predominantly citrus fruits and hardy winter selections.

Citrus Fruits

December marks a plentiful season for citrus fruits in Georgia. Consumers can find a selection of clementines and oranges, both known for their juiciness and high vitamin C content. They frequently appear in local markets and groves, fresh and ready to consume.

Clementines: A seedless variety, easy to peel, perfect for a quick snack.
Oranges: Juicy and sweet, available in several varieties such as navel oranges.

Hardy Winter Fruits

Apart from citrus, other fruits also thrive in the cooler temperatures of December. Cranberries, a winter staple, are commonly utilized in holiday dishes and desserts. Georgia markets also see a variety of pears and apples, which are ideal for both eating raw and incorporating into seasonal recipes. Lastly, persimmons emerge during this period, offering a unique flavor that is both sweet and nuanced.

Apples: Ranging from tart to sweet, versatile in use.
Pears: With a buttery texture, excellent for both fresh eating and baking.
Cranberries: Often used in sauces and baked goods, have a tart flavor.
Persimmons: Sweet when ripe, can be eaten fresh or dried.

December's Vegetable Harvest

In December, Georgia's gardens yield a heartwarming array of vegetables despite the cold weather. This month features a variety of root vegetables, robust leafy greens, and hearty cruciferous vegetables that are perfect for nutritious winter meals.

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables thrive in Georgia's December soil, offering a rich bounty of flavors and nutrients.

Carrots: They provide a sweet taste and are ideal for soups, stews, and roasting.
Beets: Rich in color and earthy in flavor; excellent for salads and pickling.
Sweet Potatoes: A southern staple that is versatile and rich in vitamins.
Turnips and Rutabagas: These closely related vegetables are often mashed or roasted for a hearty dish.
Radishes: Crisp and spicy, radishes add a fresh bite to winter salads.

Leafy Greens

The cooler temperatures in December are conducive to growing a range of leafy greens that are both tender and flavorful.

Kale: A durable green that stands up to frost and is perfect for salads or chips.
Spinach: This cold-hardy green is excellent for salads, sautés, and as an ingredient in warm dishes.
Collard Greens: A traditional southern green known for its use in slow-cooked dishes.

Cruciferous Vegetables

This family of vegetables is well suited for the cooler climate and provides important nutrients during the winter months.

Cauliflower: Its mild taste makes it a versatile ingredient for everything from raw snacks to roasted side dishes.
Brussels Sprouts: When roasted, these small sprouts develop a caramelized exterior and a tender interior.
Broccoli: A staple cruciferous vegetable that can be steamed, roasted, or used in casseroles and soups.

The vegetable harvest in December showcases Georgia's ability to produce a variety of nutritious and flavorful components essential for a healthy diet during the winter season.

Farmers Markets and Seasonal Availability

In Georgia, December ushers in a bounty of seasonal produce available at local farmers markets. These markets are integral to supporting the state's agricultural community and providing consumers with fresh, regional foods. During this month, visitors can find a variety of vegetables that thrive in cooler weather.

Vegetables Available in December:

Cauliflower
Celery
Collard Greens
Turnips

These crops are reaching the end of their seasonal cycle, yet still offer robust flavors. Farmers markets in Georgia not only boost the local economy but also serve as a hub for seasonal crop availability, allowing for direct interaction between consumers and the farmers who cultivate these winter offerings.

The Department of Agriculture maintains a network of nine State Farmers Markets, which are pivotal in supplying the populace with these in-season commodities. As December does not favor the growth of many fruits in the outdoor climate of Georgia, the fruit offerings are typically limited or sourced from controlled environments like greenhouses.

Visiting a farmers market during this time provides an opportunity to enjoy produce at its peak freshness. It ensures that consumers get the most flavorful experience while also embracing the cycle of regional agriculture. The markets' commitment to offering seasonally available crops helps to foster a sustainable food system within Georgia.

Cooking and Preparing Seasonal Produce

In December, Georgia's seasonal produce offers a variety of flavors that can be transformed into warming dishes. These ingredients can be used in recipes that deliver comfort during the colder days or preserved to enjoy throughout the year.

Winter Comfort Recipes

One can highlight the natural sweetness of root vegetables by incorporating them into roasts and soups. For instance, a roasted beet and carrot medley with a touch of honey brings out the inherent sugars, making a dish that pleases the palate with its caramelized edges. Here is a simple recipe outline for a winter vegetable roast:

Ingredients: Beets, carrots, olive oil, honey, salt, and thyme.
Instructions: Toss the vegetables in olive oil and honey, season with salt and thyme, and roast until tender.

Seasonal collard greens also make a robust addition to soups. They can be cooked down into a rich and nutritious potlikker, perfect for sipping or as the base of a hearty stew with white beans.

Preserving the Harvest

To savor December's produce throughout the year, preserving methods like canning, freezing, or drying are invaluable. Garlic and herbs can be easily dried and stored in airtight containers for months. For example, making a garlic paste and freezing it in ice cube trays allows cooks to have ready-to-use portions for future meals. Here’s a brief guide to preserving specific items:

Root Vegetables (beets, carrots): Can be pickled, canned, or stored in a cool, dark place.
Greens (collard greens): Blanch and freeze to retain flavor and nutrients.
Herbs (rosemary, sage, thyme): Dry and store in jars for seasoning dishes year-round.

Nutritional Benefits of Seasonal Produce

Eating seasonal produce provides an array of nutritional benefits. Georgia's December harvest offers fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals, essential for maintaining good health during the colder months.

Apples, a staple in Georgia's winter selection, are a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C. They support digestive health and can boost immune function.

Greens, such as kale and collards, thrive in cooler temperatures. They are densely packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, and calcium. These nutrients are important for vision, skin health, and bone strength.

A table of key nutrients in December seasonal produce in Georgia:

Produce Nutrient Benefit Apples Dietary Fiber Aids in digestion Vitamin C Boosts the immune system Greens Vitamin A Supports vision and skin health Vitamin C Promotes healing and iron absorption Calcium Essential for bone health

These fruits and vegetables not only add vibrancy to meals but also contribute to a diversified diet—a principle recommended by dietitians for overall health. By incorporating Georgia's seasonal produce, individuals can enjoy fresh, nutrient-dense foods that support a healthy lifestyle.