What’s in Season? A Month-by-Month Guide to Fresh Produce in Southern California

Eating seasonally means better flavor, better nutrition, and better value. Southern California’s warm climate lets farmers grow an incredible variety of produce year-round, but what’s at its best changes month to month. Use this guide to see what to look for at your local farmers market(and when to try something new).

January

Citrus and leafy greens are at their peak.

In Season: Navel oranges, mandarins, grapefruit, lemons, avocados, kale, chard, spinach, carrots, beets, cabbage, broccoli.

February

Winter flavors continue strong.

In Season: Blood oranges, Meyer lemons, tangerines, radishes, leeks, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, fennel.

March

Spring begins to show.

In Season: Strawberries (early season), asparagus, snap peas, spring onions, mixed lettuces, herbs, artichokes.

April

More berries and tender spring vegetables.

In Season: Strawberries, apricots (early), blueberries(early SoCal varieties), radishes, baby carrots, fresh garlic.

May

Summer fruit starts arriving.

In Season: Cherries, peaches, nectarines, zucchini, cucumbers, green beans, new potatoes.

June

Stone fruit and tomatoes hit full flavor.

In Season: Peaches, plums, nectarines, tomatoes, melons, corn, basil, bell peppers.

July

Peak summer abundance.

In Season: Watermelon, berries, figs, tomatoes, cucumbers, summer squash, eggplant.

August

The richest flavors of summer.

In Season: Heirloom tomatoes, grapes, melons, peppers, corn, okra, chilies, late-season peaches and plums.

September

Transition from summer to fall.

In Season: Apples (early), pears, figs, grapes, peppers, tomatoes, pumpkins (early), leafy greens return.

October

Fall harvest begins to deepen.

In Season: Persimmons, pomegranates, apples, pears, winter squash, cauliflower, broccoli.

November

Cool-weather vegetables return in force.

In Season: Persimmons (peak), pomegranates, leafy greens, Brussels sprouts, mushrooms (varies by variety and farm).

December

Citrus season returns bright and sweet.

In Season: Mandarins, satsumas, lemons, limes, avocados, carrots, beets, hardy greens.

Why Eating Seasonally Matters

• Best Flavor: Produce is picked ripe, not shipped and stored.
• More Nutrition: Shorter travel time means fewer nutrient loss.
• Supports Local Farmers: Your money stays in the community.
• Better for the Planet: Fewer food miles and less waste.

Ready to Shop Fresh?

Find markets near you and explore what’s in season this week.

Explore Southern California farmers markets: FarmersMarketSoCal.com

Prefer delivery? Shop fresh, local produce online from local farmers.

Eat with the seasons. Taste the difference.

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