Yahoo Movies What Fruits Are In Season Right Now?
Here's how you can take advantage of the freshest fruit throughout the year.
Fact checked by Haley Mades
While you can get almost any fruit all year long, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you should. That’s because produce that’s not in season is often picked early before it's fully ripe and then shipped long distances to land in your grocery store. But in reality, these fruits usually taste vastly different than what’s in season, and may not offer as many health benefits either. And, if you needed another reason to shop for only the freshest produce, you should know that in-season produce is often more affordable.
To help you know what fruits are in season when, we’ve broken it down by season and used the U.S. Department of Agriculture as a guide.
What Does It Mean For Fruit To Be In Season?
Have you ever bought a carton of strawberries during the winter months and realized they’re white inside and lack that deliciously sweet flavor? In-season produce is all dependent on climate and growing conditions, which differ in every region. California is known for growing the most delicious berries, Florida is famous for its surplus of oranges, and everyone knows the best apples come from New York or Washington. And while you may have noticed that you can purchase certain fruits year-round despite a limited season, that’s likely because that produce is being harvested in other or countries or even hemispheres where it is in-season, and then shipped to where you live.
Still, understanding the best season to enjoy certain fruits will ensure you’re getting the best quality product, usually at the most reasonable price. Plus, since in-season produce doesn't need to travel as far to reach your kitchen, you're likely reducing your carbon footprint, too!
Related: The 12 Healthiest Fruits To Eat, According to the Pros
Oksana Mamba/Getty Images
What Fruits Are In Season in Spring?
As the bright spring season approaches, more delicious fruit becomes available. Apricots may be small, but they’re a great source of potassium and fiber, and can be enjoyed in countless ways. Strawberries and pineapples are also ready to be devoured in everything from fresh tacos to homemade pies.
Apples (harvested in fall, but available from storage all year)
Apricots
Bananas (available year round)
Kiwifruit
Related: What Vegetables Are In Season Right Now?
istetiana/Getty Images
What Fruits Are In Season in Summer?
There’s really nothing quite like enjoying fresh summer fruit on a beautiful, sunny day. Now’s the time to gorge on all the berries, melons, and stone fruit you can stomach. And don't forget to stock up on watermelon!
Apples (harvested in fall, but available from storage all year)
Apricots
Bananas (available year round)
Figs
Grapes
Honeydew melon
Mangos
Nectarines
Pears
Plums
Claudia Totir/Getty Images
What Fruits Are In Season in Fall?
When you think of autumn, you probably think of apple picking. And it’s pretty much the only time of year where you can find every apple variety in existence, so it’s a good idea to stock up. Grapes and pears are also perfectly ripe in the fall, and make for a great snack, especially on a cheeseboard.
Apples
Bananas (available year round)
Clementines
Figs
Persimmons
Pomegranates
Satsuma mandarins
Related: 16 Easy Vegetable Side Dishes That Go With Everything
istetiana/Getty Images
What Fruits Are In Season in Winter?
A variety of citrus fruits are harvested in the winter, which helps us get necessary vitamin C to ward off seasonal colds and other germs. Pineapple, kiwi, and bananas are also great options to enjoy during the winter, and they are just what you need to make a Tropical Fruit Salad that will transport you to a white sand beach.
Apples (harvested in fall, but available from storage all year round)
Bananas (available year round)
Blood oranges
Clementines
Kiwifruit
Kumquats
Limes
Meyer lemons
Navel oranges
Pineapples
Pomegranates
Pomelos
Tangerines
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