Kansas Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables in September

Your Guide to Fresh Produce

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

In Kansas, September marks a bountiful period where the hard work of local farmers is revealed through an array of fruits and vegetables reaching peak harvest. This is the time of year when the fields and orchards brim with the fruits of labor and the palette of produce colors the markets. A diverse selection of crops, from the sweetness of melons to the earthiness of root vegetables, becomes available for consumers looking for fresh, home-grown food.

Fruits like apples (how long do apples last?), plums and pears along with late-season peaches and blackberries (how long do blackberries last?) are commonly harvested in September. These fruits are not only fresher and tastier but also often more nutritious, having been allowed to ripen fully in the sun. On the vegetable front, Kansas offers a variety of fresh picks including tomatoes, sweet corn, cucumbers, and peppers. Root vegetables such as beets, carrots, and radishes are also in abundance, providing depth and flavor to autumnal recipes.

This harvest time is crucial for the local economy and the health of residents, supporting Kansas's agricultural heritage and the trend towards sustainable, locally-sourced food. As the summer heat begins to wane, the September harvest is a reminder of the state's agricultural capabilities and the importance of supporting local producers. Consumers can enjoy fresh, quality produce while contributing to the resilience of the local food system.

Overview of Kansas' Growing Seasons

Kansas' agricultural productivity is deeply influenced by its seasonal climate and soil composition. These factors determine the planting and harvest times for a variety of crops throughout the year.

Understanding Kansas' Climate and Soil for Agriculture

The climate in Kansas is predominantly continental, characterized by cold winters and hot, often humid, summers. The state experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, which significantly affects the growing seasons. Kansas' soil is part of what makes it part of America's breadbasket; the soil is typically deep and fertile, predominantly made up of mollisols, ideal for growing a variety of crops. Soil composition can vary, however, and includes loamy, sand, and clay-rich soils that can be found across the state.

Key Planting and Harvest Times in Kansas

Planting and harvest times in Kansas are crucial for maximized yield and quality. Kansas farmers typically begin planting cool-season crops such as broccoli (how long does broccoli last?)and cabbage in early spring. Warm-season crops like tomatoes and peppers are planted after the last spring frost, ensuring they aren't damaged by cold weather.

During September, Kansas' harvest season is in full swing for a variety of produce. Here are some specific crops and their typical harvest times in Kansas:

• Vegetables:

  • Beets: May through October

  • Broccoli: June through October

  • Brussels Sprouts (how long do brussels sprouts last?): August through November

  • Cabbage: June through November

• Fruits:

  • Blackberries: July into August

  • Blueberries: (how long do blueberries last?) July into August

  • Cantaloupes (how long does cantaloupe last?): August and September

Many of these crops reach peak ripeness in September, giving consumers access to fresh, locally-grown produce. The state's agricultural calendar is attuned to these harvest times, ensuring that Kansas' markets are stocked with an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables seasonally available.

Fruits and Vegetables to Expect in September

September in Kansas ushers in a bountiful period of harvest with the arrival of early fall varieties and the maturing of late-summer produce. The emphasis is on the freshest fruits and vegetables transitioning from the warm summer months into the cooler fall season.

Early Fall Varieties in Kansas

Kansas' early fall heralds the peak season for several fruits and vegetables. Key players in this month include:

• Apples: A cornerstone of the fall harvest, expect a variety of apples ripening to perfection.

• Pears: Delicate and sweet, pears are another fruit that signals the transition into fall.

This is also an opportune time to enjoy the last yields of certain summer produce, as the weather remains conducive to their growth.

Transitioning from Summer to Fall Produce

The transition from summer to fall in Kansas is marked by the overlapping availability of summer and fall produce. The bounty includes:

• Summer Squash: These typically reach the end of their season as September wanes, making it a prime time to enjoy their fresh flavors.

• Sweet Potatoes (What wine goes well with sweet potatoes?): September sees the onset of the sweet potato harvest, a nutritious and versatile vegetable that will continue to be available throughout the fall.

These crops are picked at their peak in September, ensuring the best flavor and nutritional value. Fruits like apples and pears are often at their juiciest, while vegetables such as sweet potatoes offer the promise of cozy autumn meals.

Local Farmers Markets and Produce Availability

In Kansas, September marks a time of abundance at local farmers markets, offering a wide variety of fresh produce to consumers. These markets are pivotal for both access to fresh food and the support of local agriculture.

Finding Fresh Local Produce

Farmers markets across Kansas become hubs of activity in September as they present a diverse selection of fruits and vegetables harvested at their peak. Shoppers can find tomatoes, peppers, and squashes, which are particularly vibrant this time of year. A plethora of apples and pears alongside the last of the peaches provide a sweet taste of the late summer transition into fall. Root vegetables like beets and sweet potatoes begin to make their appearance as well. Here's a brief list of typically available produce in Kansas during September:

• Fruits: Apples, Pears, Peaches

• Vegetables: Tomatoes, Bell peppers, Winter squash, Beets, Sweet potatoes

These items are often available directly from the growers, ensuring they are as fresh as possible.

Benefits of Supporting Local Kansas Farmers

By choosing to shop at farmers markets, consumers not only enjoy fresh, seasonal produce but also contribute to the local economy. Buying local helps sustain farmers who use sustainable practices, preserving the environment and promoting a healthier food system. The direct purchase also means less transportation is required, leading to reduced carbon emissions and better food quality.

Every purchase at a farmers market bolsters the community's economy and allows farmers to continue providing fresh, local produce. It also fosters a connection between consumers and the individuals who grow their food, offering transparency about where their food comes from and how it's grown.

Selecting and Storing September Produce

In September, Kansas offers a bountiful variety of fruits and vegetables. The key to enjoying this produce at its best is knowing how to select the ripest, freshest items and understanding the proper techniques for their preservation and storage.

Tips for Choosing the Best September Fruits and Vegetables

• Apples: Look for firm, brightly colored apples with no bruises. They should have a crisp texture and be fragrant. Apples can keep well in a cool, dark place, but for long-term storage, refrigeration is recommended.

• Pears: Choose pears that are firm to the touch with a slight yield near the stem. Pears ripen off the tree, so storing at room temperature until they achieve desired ripeness is ideal, then refrigerate.

• Grapes: Search for bunches with plump grapes and green, flexible stems. Refrigerate grapes in a perforated plastic bag to maintain freshness.

• Melons: Ripe melons will have a fragrant smell at the stem end and should feel heavy for their size. Store uncut melons at room temperature but refrigerate once cut.

• Tomatoes: Opt for juicy, bright-colored tomatoes with smooth skin. Keep them at room temperature away from sunlight to preserve flavor and texture.

Preservation and Storage Techniques

• Refrigeration: Most vegetables should be stored in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator to stay fresh and crisp. Vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower benefit from being in a high-humidity environment.

• Freezing: Berries and cut pieces of fruit like melons and peaches can be frozen on a tray before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags, which helps maintain their juicy texture.

• Canning: Tomatoes, pears, and apples are suitable for canning, which can extend their shelf life for months. They should be canned using safe preservation methods to prevent spoilage.

• Dry & Cool Storage: Onions and garlic should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area. They do not require refrigeration and can last for a prolonged period when kept in a cool, dark place.

By selecting the best fruits and vegetables and employing these storage techniques, one can ensure that the peak flavors and textures of Kansas’s September bounty are enjoyed throughout the season and beyond.

Health Benefits of Seasonal Eating

Eating seasonally in Kansas during September offers substantial health benefits and supports local sustainability. Fresh produce that is harvested at its peak not only tends to be more nutrient-rich but also promotes the local economy and ecological balance.

Nutritional Advantages of Fresh Produce

When fruits and vegetables are picked during their natural growing season, they are typically richer in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Seasonal eating ensures that one's diet is diverse and rotates regularly, which can help cover a wide range of nutritional needs. For example, freshly harvested tomatoes in September are likely to have higher levels of vitamin C compared to those shipped out of season. Similarly, leafy greens like kale, which thrive in cooler weather, offer an abundance of vitamin K and iron when eaten in season.

Contribution to Local Economy and Sustainability

Choosing to eat seasonally also reinforces the local economy. When consumers purchase from nearby farms, their money directly supports local agricultural businesses. Sustainability is another key benefit; seasonal produce typically requires fewer transportation and storage resources, reducing its carbon footprint. This practice helps to preserve the environmental integrity of the region. Additionally, by reducing the need for long-distance transportation, local farms can provide fresher options that haven't been subject to extensive preservation processes, which often diminish taste and nutritional value.

Cooking and Recipes

As the leaves begin to turn in Kansas, September ushers in a bounty of fall produce suited for a variety of cooking methods and recipes. From roasting to canning, the season's harvest offers ample opportunities for both preservation and culinary innovation.

Innovative Recipes for Fall Produce

Embracing the fresh flavors of September's fruits and vegetables, home cooks can explore innovative recipes that highlight the season's offerings. Arugula and beets can be paired in vibrant salads, dressed with a light vinaigrette to enhance their natural flavors. Desserts like blackberry cobblers and blueberry pies capitalize on the last of summer's sweet berries. Roasted delicacies emerge as a favorite with items such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts taking on a caramelized, nutty flavor when prepared in the oven.

Example Fall Recipes:

• Arugula Salad with Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese

• Blackberry Cobbler with Fresh Whipped Cream

• Oven-Roasted Broccoli with Garlic and Parmesan

• Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

Preserving the Harvest with Canning and Pickling

September’s harvest provides a perfect opportunity for preservation techniques such as canning and pickling. Tomatoes can be transformed into sauces and salsas, or simply canned whole for future use. Cucumbers, cabbage, and other vegetables can be pickled, ensuring that the tastes of autumn can be enjoyed long after the season ends. Creating jams from blackberries or blueberries allows for a spreadable, sweet treat that captures the essence of fall's end.

Preservation Methods:

• Tomato Sauce Canning for Pasta and Stews

• Pickled Cucumbers with Dill and Garlic

• Blackberry Jam for Breakfast and Desserts

• Sauerkraut (how long does sauerkraut last?) from Cabbage for Sandwiches and Sides

Agricultural Education in Kansas

Agricultural education in Kansas is robust, characterized by pioneering research and extensive support for farming and gardening communities.

Role of Kansas State University in Agricultural Research

Kansas State University (KSU) plays a pivotal role in agricultural education through its dedicated research initiatives. The university's researchers conduct various studies on crop development, soil health, and sustainable agricultural practices. These research projects not only contribute to academic knowledge but also directly impact the region's agricultural methodologies. KSU is known for disseminating its findings to ensure that Kansas farmers stay at the forefront of agricultural innovation.

Workshops and Resources for Farmers and Gardeners

To aid farmers and gardeners, Kansas State University Extension provides a wealth of resources and workshops. They offer:

1. Educational Workshops: Seasonal workshops on best practices for crop cultivation and management.

2. Training Sessions: Training on modern farming techniques and the use of agricultural technology.

3. Resource Materials: Access to extensive online and printed guides on various agricultural topics.

These resources aim to enhance the skills and productivity of Kansas' agricultural community. Workshops are tailored to farmers' and gardeners' needs, ensuring they receive practical and applicable advice for their operations.