Pennsylvania Seasonal Fruit & Vegetables in September
A Guide to Fresh Produce
This Article is Part of our Pennsylvania Seasonal Fruit & Veg Calendar
September in Pennsylvania ushers in a rich harvest of fruits and vegetables, representing a period of abundance and variety. The state's diverse climate and fertile soils contribute to a wide range of produce reaching their peak freshness. Consumers have the chance to enjoy fresh, locally-grown foods that not only offer superior taste and nutrition but also support the local economy and reduce environmental impact due to lower transportation needs.
This month is particularly notable for the availability of both summer favorites and the beginnings of fall harvests. Pennsylvania's markets brim with an array of colorful fruits, including the sweetness of tree-ripened apples (how long do apples last?), the last of summer's plump blueberries, and the juicy delight of ripe cantaloupes (how long does cantaloupe last?). Vegetables also take center stage with staples such as crisp bell peppers, a variety of leafy greens, and hearty root vegetables like carrots and beets (how long do beets last?).
As the season transitions, consumers can find fresh tomatoes, which continue to sweeten on the vine, along with earthy potatoes and onions that form the base of many autumnal recipes. It's an ideal time for residents and visitors alike to explore local farmers' markets and savor the fresh flavors of September's seasonal bounty in Pennsylvania.
Overview of Pennsylvania's Seasonal Produce
In Pennsylvania, September marks a transitional period where the bounty of summer produce begins to make way for the heartier, robust flavors of fall.
The Impact of Weather on Crop Availability
September's weather in Pennsylvania greatly influences the kinds of fruits and vegetables available. As the state experiences a decrease in temperature, some summer crops reach the end of their growing cycle while others hit their peak. The cooler nights and mild days are perfect for extending the life of certain summer vegetables, allowing them to remain in season into early fall.
Summer Crops in Peak Season:
Tomatoes
Green beans
Zucchini (What wine goes well with zucchini?)
Fall Crops Starting to Appear:
Apples
Pumpkins
Root vegetables like carrots and beets
September's Seasonal Shift from Summer to Fall
As September progresses, there is a noticeable shift from the lighter, refreshing produce of summer to the more substantial and earthy fare associated with fall. This seasonal shift means consumers can enjoy both the last of the summer crops and the first of fall's offerings.
Continuing Summer Produce:
Sweet corn
Peppers
Early Fall Produce:
Brussels sprouts
Cauliflower (how long does cauliflower last?)
Kale
This pattern of crop availability is subject to slight annual variations due to Pennsylvania's climate conditions, with certain crops potentially arriving earlier or later in the month.
Fruits Coming Into Season in September
In Pennsylvania, September signifies a shift in fruits reaching their optimal ripeness, offering both sweet and tart flavors perfect for a variety of uses from raw snacking to jam making.
Tree Fruits Ripe for Picking
Apples: A diverse array of apple varieties come into season, ranging from the crisp and sweet 'Honeycrisp' to the tart and snappy 'Granny Smith'. Apples are versatile for use in both raw snacks and a variety of cooked dishes.
Pears: The supple and sweet 'Bartlett' pears are typically harvested starting in September, known for their juicy bite and slightly rounded shape, making them ideal for fresh eating or canning.
Peaches: Although the peach season is waning, early September still yields some sweet and juicy fruits, perfect for pies or enjoying as a raw treat.
Plums: Available in varieties that range from mouth-wateringly tart to delicately sweet, plums peak in early fall and add a burst of flavor to both savory dishes and desserts.
Berry Varieties and Their September Harvest
Blackberries: These berries are usually at their best until mid-September. They're known for their deep flavor, which is excellent for jams or syrups.
Raspberries: September brings a second harvest for many raspberry varieties, offering a sweet-tart taste that is ideal for fresh eating, baking, or preserving.
Grapes: Vineyards begin to buzz with activity as grape clusters ripen to perfection. From table grapes to varieties used in wine making, they are noted for their range from sweet to tart flavors.
Vegetables Unique to the Fall Harvest
As September's cool weather sets in Pennsylvania, the fall harvest brings a bounty of vegetables known for their robust flavors and culinary versatility.
Root Vegetables and Their Versatile Uses
Pennsylvania's soil yields an assortment of root vegetables in the fall, each with distinctive flavors and textures. Carrots and beets are particularly firm and sweet, enhancing their appeal in both raw and cooked forms. Potatoes and onions offer a wide range of uses, becoming staples in various dishes. From roasted carrots to mashed potatoes, these root vegetables are foundational for seasonal comfort foods.
Radishes: Typically found tender and crisp, suitable for salads or as a garnish.
Beets: Known for their deep, earthy flavor and are often boiled or roasted.
Cruciferous and Leafy Greens in Late Harvest
Kale, a hearty green, maintains its structure after cooking and is rich in nutrients, making it a popular choice for salads and soups. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli (how long does broccoli last?)and cauliflower come into full swing, boasting versatility — they can be enjoyed raw, steamed, or transformed into a roasted dish with a caramelized finish.
Broccoli: Best enjoyed when its florets are still firm after cooking.
Cauliflower: Can be found in various colors and is ideal for a variety of culinary applications, ranging from raw florets in a salad to pureed soups.
In Pennsylvania's fall, these vegetables not only add depth to any dish but also offer substantial health benefits thanks to their high vitamin and mineral content.
Tomatoes and Summer Vegetables' Last Hurrah
As September arrives in Pennsylvania, gardeners and farmers prepare for the final harvest of tomatoes and summer vegetables. The season's warmth gives way to crisp, cooler nights, enhancing the flavor of these late-ripening varieties to their peak.
End of the Season Tomato Varieties
Pennsylvania sees a variety of tomatoes flourish come September. The last harvest can include beefsteak, cherry, and heirloom tomatoes. These varieties are known for their rich, full flavor—ideal for salsas, roasting, or being enjoyed fresh. It's the opportune time to relish their juicy, flavorful profiles before the first frost arrives.
Beefsteak Tomatoes: Large and meaty, perfect for sandwiches.
Cherry Tomatoes: Small and sweet, excellent for salads.
Heirloom Tomatoes: Diverse in size and color, celebrated for their unique tastes.
Other Summer Vegetables Wrapping Up
The end of summer also signifies the last yield for other heat-loving vegetables. Corn, particularly sweet corn, is harvested at its sweetest. Vegetables such as eggplant (how long does eggplant last?), peppers, squash, cucumbers, and zucchini reach the end of their cycle, with their flavors at their peak, tender and full of the summer's warmth. They can be beautifully incorporated in various dishes, whether grilled, fried, or even preserved to savor the essence of summer in the following months.
Corn: Best picked when kernels are plump and milky.
Eggplant: Harvested when skin is glossy and the flesh is firm.
Peppers: Picked at various stages, from green to full color, depending on the desired flavor and use.
Squash/Cucumbers/Zucchini: Harvested when medium-sized to ensure a firm texture.
Preparing and Preserving September's Bount
In September, Pennsylvania provides a rich harvest of fruits and vegetables. Preserving this bounty through canning, freezing, and pickling ensures enjoyment of these nutritious offerings year-round. Additionally, mastering various cooking techniques can elevate the natural flavors of fresh produce for immediate consumption.
Canning, Freezing, and Pickling
Proper preservation of produce extends its shelf life and captures the peak of its flavor. Here's how one can achieve that:
Canning: A method suitable for fruits and vegetables, though it requires careful adherence to food safety guidelines. September's tomatoes and peaches are ideal candidates for canning.
Freezing: Most fruits and vegetables freeze well, retaining much of their nutritional value. For example, blanching green beans from the September harvest and then freezing them can preserve their delicious taste and essential nutrients.
Pickling: It's not just for cucumbers; many vegetables can be pickled, including beets and cabbage available in September. The quick pickling technique is straightforward and infuses produce with a tangy flavor, making for a delightful snack or addition to salads.
Techniques for Cooking Fresh Produce
Cooking techniques of September yields vary, focusing on retaining the fresh flavors and nutrients:
Baked: Fruits like apples and pears can be baked into desserts or enjoyed as a warm, nutritious snack.
Roasted: Root vegetables from September's selection like beets can be roasted to enhance their natural sweetness.
Grilled: Tomatoes and peppers are suitable for grilling which can elicit a unique, smoky flavor ideal for salsas and side dishes.
Steaming: A gentle technique preserving the nutrients and flavor of vegetables. Steaming broccoli or green beans results in a nutritious side dish that maintains the integrity of the produce.
Utilizing these methods, one can savor the delicious and nutritious produce from Pennsylvania's September harvest in various gastronomically pleasing forms.
Farmers Markets and Local Produce Events
In September, Pennsylvania boasts a variety of farmers markets and local produce events that offer an array of fresh, in-season produce. Enthusiasts can explore a calendar of events that highlight the local bounty or visit a farmers market for a taste of the region's freshest offerings.
Finding Local Farmers Markets
Local Farmers Markets: Farmers markets in Pennsylvania are vibrant community hubs where one can find fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables. In September, markets like the Bethlehem Rose Garden Farmers Market are in full swing, offering local specialties. Most markets operate on specific days of the week; for instance, many are open on Saturdays, providing a consistent opportunity for locals to stock up on fresh produce.
Market Availability: Most farmers markets in Pennsylvania typically operate from early morning until mid-afternoon. Visitors should check individual market hours as they may vary.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Produce Events and Festivals: September is a prime month for seasonal events and festivals that celebrate Pennsylvania’s harvest. These events often feature local growers and a plethora of fresh produce. Festivals are not just about buying produce; they often include tastings, cooking demonstrations, and other activities to engage the community with their local food producers.
Calendar Highlights: Keep an eye out for community-posted calendars that list these local events, as they are prime opportunities to immersively experience Pennsylvania's agrarian culture and its seasonal offerings.
Conclusion
For those who appreciate the richness of farm-to-table experiences, September in Pennsylvania is a prime time to enjoy a variety of fresh produce. Consumers can expect apples in abundance, with many varieties available, ranging from the tart Granny Smith to the sweet Honeycrisp. These apples are perfect for creating smooth, homemade applesauce or simply enjoying as a crisp snack.
Availability is robust, as local farms and markets showcase the season's harvest. Buyers should look for fruits and vegetables that are heavy for their size—a sign of quality and freshness. September's offerings are not limited to apples; one can find a selection of vibrant produce to satisfy any palette.
The following list highlights key in-season fruits and vegetables available in Pennsylvania during September:
Fruits: Apples, Grapes, Pears, Plums
Vegetables: Brussels Sprouts, Cauliflower, Celery, Carrots
It's an ideal time for consumers to support local agriculture by purchasing in-season produce, where the direct impact on farmers is most significant. By choosing from the variety of sizes and types available, individuals not only foster the farm-to-table movement but also enjoy the peak flavors of Pennsylvania's harvest.
