What’s fresh at northern New York farmers markets this summer?

Besides the time in the sun and connecting with your community, one of the best things about famers markets is the constantly rotating menu of fresh produce. Thanks to our short growing seasons in northern New York, the start of market season boasts a smaller, yet still endearing array of fruits and vegetables. However, the months have flown by and now that we’ve found ourselves in July already, the market tables are filling up fast with all the freshly grown items your heart could desire! Here is what to expect to see each month throughout market season. 

Commonly considered the true start of summer, July has a strong list of grown goods to offer. You’re bound to find lettuce and mixed salad greens, spinach, kale, swiss chard, green onions and fresh herbs, radishes, beets, carrots, cucumbers, squash like zucchini and yellow summer varieties, snap peas and green beans, mushrooms, broccoli, cabbage, potatoes, raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, honeyberries, and early tomatoes. July is the perfect month for crisp salads, grilled veggies, and fresh berries. Since local produce is picked just before each market, you’ll notice a flavor brightness and longer-lasting freshness than those that travel miles to end up in stores. 

As peak harvest season, August is great news for farmers and market enthusiasts alike. You can expect to see many well-loved favs from July, along with a range of new options to indulge in. Keep your eye out for all sizes and kinds of tomatoes, sweet corn, bell peppers and hot peppers, eggplant, cucumbers, squash varieties, green beans, mushrooms, carrots, beets, potatoes, onions, garlic, cabbage, herbs, kale, swiss chard, melons, blueberries, blackberries, and figs. This is prime time for homemade salsas, BBQ’s featuring sweet melons and roasted corn, and starting to stock up on canned tomatoes or pickled veggies for winter. 

The weather may start to cool down in September, but there are still plenty of fresh grown fruits and veggies to enjoy. Varieties of produce seen in earlier months linger, delicate leafy greens make their well-anticipated return since spring, and fall favorites make an appearance. You’ll likely find tomatoes, sweet corn, peppers, eggplant, cucumbers, beets, carrots, onions, mushrooms, potatoes, cabbage, broccoli, cauliflowers, brussel sprouts, spinach, lettuce, arugula, mustard greens, kale, swiss chard, winter squash, pumpkins, apples, pears, and figs. September is summer meeting fall. The perfect time to start kicking off the cozy season with soups, stew, ciders, spiced desserts, and more.

Varying timelines for locally grown produce keeps markets exciting. You’re bound to find something new from week to week and it’s a great opportunity to incorporate a wide range of fruits and veggies into your diet. The best part, there’s no doubt that you’re receiving each item at the peak of its harvest! Dive into freshness, flavor, and community this summer by visiting your nearest Jefferson County farmers market and buying local. 

Visit jcnylocalfoods.org for a market schedule and list of local farms.