West Virginia Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables in May
Your Fresh Guide
This Article is Part of our West Virginia Seasonal Fruit & Veg Calendar
As spring unfolds in West Virginia, the region becomes abundant with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. May, sitting at the cusp of spring and summer, offers an array of produce that captures the essence of the season's transition. In West Virginia, the season's warmth begins to breathe life into local gardens and farms, and the markets start to brim with vibrant, seasonal offerings.
West Virginia's temperate climate and rich soil in May are ideal for the cultivation of a diverse range of produce. Shoppers and chefs alike look forward to the spring harvest, which includes crisp arugula (how long does arugula last?) and sweet strawberries that are typically at their peak during this month. The increased daylight and moderate temperatures support the growth of these crops, providing consumers with fresh, flavorful produce that is characteristic of West Virginia's spring season.
Farmers' markets become a community hub where the fruits of a West Virginia May can be found. These local markets not only offer access to fresh, seasonal produce but also foster a connection between farmers and consumers. Here, one can find the ingredients essential for springtime cuisine, whether it be for a fresh arugula salad or a berry dessert that encapsulates the fresh tastes of West Virginia's bountiful spring harvest.
Seasonal Overview of May
In May, West Virginia’s agriculture transitions robustly into the spring season, marking a time when a variety of crops are reaching their peak availability due to favorable weather conditions.
Weather Influence on Crops
The climate of West Virginia in May typically involves moderate temperatures and increased rainfall, setting the stage for crop growth. Farmers anticipate these conditions yearly, as they can significantly affect the quality and size of the harvest. However, the weather can also fluctuate, making some years more challenging for certain crops depending on the timing and amount of rainfall and temperature.
Key Harvests in May
During this month, several vegetables and fruits become available for harvest. The precise timing can vary due to the climate's impact from one year to the next, but the following list reflects the general expected availability:
Vegetables:
Arugula
Fruits:
Watermelons are not yet in season during May but will be available later, beginning around August.
May is a pivotal month for planting and growth, rather than harvesting fruits in West Virginia. The crops listed are in their growth phase and will not typically be harvested until later in the year, but they are being actively tended to during May for future harvests.
Fruit Harvest in May
May in West Virginia signals the start of the berry harvest season, with an abundance of fresh, ripe berries becoming available.
Berries
Strawberries: A highlight in May. They typically begin to ripen in early May, providing a sweet and juicy treat. Residents and visitors flock to pick-your-own farms or local markets to enjoy these first berries of the season.
Availability: Early May
Popular Varieties: Chandler, Earliglow
Picking Tips: Look for bright red and firm strawberries with a sweet aroma.
Blueberries and Raspberries: Although not always fully ripe in May, some early varieties of these berries can occasionally be found towards the end of the month.
Stone Fruits
Stone fruits such as cherries (how long do cherries last?) start to appear in some parts of West Virginia by late May, weather permitting.
Availability: Late May (depends on the region and yearly climate variations)
Common Types of Cherries: Sweet, Tart
Suggested Usage: Fresh, pies, jams
No mention is made of apples or stone fruits other than cherries being available in May, as their seasons typically start later in the year.
Vegetable Harvest in May
May in West Virginia signals the time for a variety of vegetables to be harvested, with emphasis on freshness and local availability. Gardens and farms are bustling with activity as several crops reach maturity and are ready for consumers.
Leafy Greens
Kale: A hardy leafy green that is ready for harvest in May.
Lettuce: Often found in various types, it thrives and is ready to be picked this month.
Spinach: Known for its speedy growth, spinach reaches harvest-ready status quickly in the season.
Leafy greens such as kale, lettuce, and spinach are in their prime during May. The mild weather provides optimal growing conditions for these crops, resulting in lush, flavorful leaves perfect for salads and cooking.
Root Vegetables
Beets: They offer their earthy sweetness when harvested in May.
Carrots: Carrots grown in the cooler spring temperatures are typically sweeter.
Radishes: A quick-growing crop, radishes are crisp and spicy this time of year.
Onions: Mature enough for harvesting, they bring pungency and depth to dishes.
Root vegetables like beets, carrots, radishes, and onions can be pulled from the soil in May. These vegetables benefit from the still-cool soil, which helps develop their distinct flavors and textures.
Pods and Seeds
Peas: The pods are plump and the peas inside are at their sweetest.
Green Beans: Snap beans can start being harvested in late May, depending on the weather.
Pods and seeds, particularly peas and green beans, are becoming ripe for picking. They generally require a bit more warmth but May often delivers, resulting in tender and flavorful produce.
Herbs in Season
In May, West Virginia gardens are flourishing with an array of herbs; this period marks a time for robust growth and the beginning of the harvest season for many varieties.
Basil, a warm-weather herb, thrives during this time. Gardeners may start to see the first harvestable leaves of basil as the risk of frost dissipates and temperatures become more consistently warm. Not only is basil great for culinary uses, but its lush greenery also contributes to the garden aesthetic.
Cilantro (how long does cilantro last?) also comes into season in May. It prefers cooler temperatures, so early May is an optimal time for harvesting. As the weather warms, cilantro may bolt, which means it will start to flower and set seeds (how long do seeds last?), so gardeners tend to seize the window of time in early spring to gather their cilantro leaves.
Here is a brief overview of herbs typically in season during May in West Virginia:
Basil: Starts flourishing in the warm temperatures of May after the last frost.
Cilantro: Best harvested in the earlier, cooler part of May before it bolts in the warmer temperatures.
Most herbs require pruning or harvesting to encourage further growth and vitality. One can harvest up to 50-75% of a plant's seasonal growth in some cases. This promotes more vigorous and sturdy plants.
In general, gardeners can find a variety of other greens and herbs becoming abundant in May. Their fresh flavors and fragrances highlight the seasonal shift and offer a range of uses from culinary to medicinal.
Farming Practices
In May, West Virginia farmers engage in specific farming practices that cater to the demands of the planting and early growth phases for a variety of crops. These practices ensure their crops, such as tomatoes, corn, cucumbers, and a range of other vegetables, thrive through to harvest.
Planting Techniques
Farmers in West Virginia employ a range of planting techniques in May, tailored to each crop's needs:
Tomatoes: Farmers often use starter plants rather than seeds to accelerate growth, planting them deeply to encourage strong root systems.
Corn: They practice straight row planting to facilitate pollination and often opt for plastic mulch to retain soil moisture.
Cucumbers & Eggplant: Seeds or starter plants are spaced adequately to prevent overcrowding and promote air circulation.
Broccoli & Cabbage: These crops are usually transplanted as seedlings, with attention paid to proper spacing to ensure adequate growth.
Kohlrabi & Green Onions: Direct seeding is common, with kohlrabi benefiting from raised beds or well-tilled soil for bulb expansion.
All planting is done after ensuring the frost-free date has passed, to protect the young crops from sudden temperature drops.
Harvesting Methods
During this time, harvesting methods are mainly focused on early spring crops, but farmers also prepare for the harvest times of the crops planted in May:
Crops: Most are harvested by hand to maintain quality, with tools like shears or knives used when necessary.
Greens: These are often cut just above soil level to allow for potential regrowth, which is common with lettuce and spinach.
Farmers monitor soil moisture and weather forecasts closely to determine the best time for each harvest, ensuring crops like green onions and lettuce are picked at peak freshness.
Local Agricultural Events
In May, as the West Virginia landscape lushly blooms, a series of agricultural events focuses on the region's bounty. With an emphasis on community and seasonality, local markets come alive, showcasing the freshest produce available.
Farmers' Markets: These vibrant gatherings are cornerstone events where growers proudly offer their fresh fruits and vegetables. The Morgantown Farmers Market, open on Saturdays, is a notable example with its wide assortment of seasonal items. Buyers can expect to find spring greens, rhubarb, and the early batches of berries.
Extension Service Calendar: The West Virginia University Extension Service provides an invaluable resource with their garden calendar. It guides both consumers and producers about what's in season, as well as timing for local agricultural events. This calendar is a useful tool for planning market visits or garden harvests.
Festival Celebrations: Certain towns may celebrate the season with festivals that pertain to May's offerings, such as the Strawberry Festival in Buckhannon. Such events not only highlight the fruit but also the cultural significance of agriculture in West Virginia.
Event Type Name Availability Location Farmers' Market Morgantown Farmers Market Saturdays Morgantown Calendar Resource WVU Extension Garden Calendar Throughout May Statewide Seasonal Festival Buckhannon Strawberry Festival Specific May Dates Buckhannon
These events emphasize the local commitment to sustainable and community-supported agriculture, reinforcing West Virginia's identity as a state deeply connected to its farming roots. Visitors are encouraged to take part and indulge in the freshness of May's harvests.
Preparing Seasonal Produce
In May, West Virginia's seasonal bounty brings a variety of flavors to the table, from the earthy sweetness of new potatoes to the fresh, peppery taste of spring greens. Proper preparation and storage of these fruits and vegetables ensure they retain their quality and nutritional value.
Storage Tips
Greens: Spring greens should be stored unwashed in a damp paper towel and placed inside a plastic bag in the refrigerator's crisper drawer. This helps maintain their moisture and crispness.
Herbs: Fresh herbs (how long do fresh herbs last?) last longer when they are stored in a glass of water, like a bouquet, and covered loosely with a plastic bag in the fridge. For longer storage, herbs can be chopped, mixed with olive oil, and frozen in ice cube trays.
Potatoes: Store new potatoes in a cool, dark, and well-ventilated place to prevent them from sprouting or becoming bitter. They should not be refrigerated as cold temperatures can affect their flavor and texture.
Zucchini (What wine goes well with zucchini?): Keep zucchini in a plastic bag in the refrigerator's vegetable crisper drawer. They are best used within a week, while they are still firm and free of blemishes.
Cooking Ideas
Greens: They shine in salads or can be lightly sautéed with garlic for a simple yet flavorful dish.
Herbs: Add a burst of flavor by incorporating fresh herbs like parsley or basil into salads, dressings, and marinades.
Potatoes: New potatoes are versatile and can be boiled, roasted, or mashed. Their creamy texture pairs well with fresh herbs such as dill or chives.
Zucchini: Due to its mild flavor, zucchini can be grilled, roasted, or spiralized into noodles for a healthy alternative to pasta. It can also be added to quick breads or muffins for added moisture and nutrition.
Seasonal Recipes
In May, the lush landscapes of West Virginia offer a bounty of produce perfect for springtime recipes. Chefs and home cooks alike seize the opportunity to use fresh, seasonal ingredients to create vibrant dishes that pay homage to the region's agricultural offerings.
Fresh Greens: Tender greens such as arugula thrive in May. Arugula's peppery notes make it an excellent base for salads. Tossed with a simple vinaigrette and a sprinkle of goat cheese, it's a refreshing start to any meal.
Vegetable Medley: As the soil warms, vegetables like tomatoes, beans, peppers, and zucchini are harvested. They are prime for grilling or roasting, which brings out their natural sweetness. Combining them with herbs enhances their earthy flavors, perfect for a side dish or as a mix-in for pastas.
Zesty Zucchini: A versatile vegetable, zucchini can be spiralized into noodles for a lighter alternative to traditional pasta. A quick sauté with garlic and a dash of lemon juice can transform it into a delightful dish that pairs well with grilled meats or fish.
Spring Veggie Recipe Idea Tomatoes Fresh salsa with cilantro and lime Beans Herb-infused bean salad Peppers Stuffed peppers with quinoa Zucchini Zucchini ribbons with pesto
As they move through spring, cooks can explore the versatility of these ingredients. Whether they're crafting a vibrant salad, grilling for a casual backyard gathering, or trying their hand at a zucchini-based dish, the fresh produce of May enables a wealth of culinary exploration.
