September is full of in-season produce. It hits that sweet spot between summer’s abundance and autumn’s cozy bounty. It’s when farmers markets brim with color, flavor, and the kind of produce that makes you want to cook, preserve, and maybe even brag a little on Instagram. But beyond the aesthetic, eating what’s in-season isn’t just trendy—it’s a delicious way to support local growers, boost nutrition, and reconnect with the rhythm of nature. If you’ve ever passed a roadside stand and wondered what’s worth stopping for, this guide is your nudge to pull over and fill your basket.
What’s In-Season This September
Across the continental U.S., September offers a vibrant mix of late-summer and early-fall produce. Here’s what to look for that is in-season and how to pick the best of the best. With just a few ideas of way to prepare your freshest, local finds.
Apples
- How to pick: Look for firm skin, no bruises, and a sweet aroma. Local varieties like Honeycrisp and Jonagold are especially flavorful this time of year.
- Recipe ideas: Apple Cider Glazed Chicken, Apple & Cheddar Galette
Pears
- How to pick: Gently press near the stem—if it gives slightly, it’s ripe. Bartlett and Bosc are great for both sweet and savory dishes.
- Recipe ideas: Roasted Pear Salad, Pear & Ginger Muffins
Grapes
- How to pick: Choose bunches with plump, tight grapes and no shriveled stems. Concord grapes are a September favorite.
- Recipe ideas: Grape Focaccia, Frozen Grape Skewers
Figs
- How to pick: Soft to the touch but not mushy, with a deep color and slight shine.
- Recipe ideas: Fig & Goat Cheese Tart, Prosciutto-Wrapped Figs
Pumpkins
- How to pick: Look for a firm shell, deep orange color, and a sturdy stem. Sugar pumpkins are best for cooking.
- Recipe ideas: Pumpkin Curry, Pumpkin Ricotta Gnocchi
Sweet Corn
- How to pick: Peel back the husk slightly to check for plump kernels. The silk should be golden and slightly sticky.
- Recipe ideas: Mexican Street Corn, Corn Chowder
Zucchini
- How to pick: Smaller zucchinis are more tender. Look for shiny skin and no soft spots.
- Recipe ideas: Zucchini Fritters, Zucchini Lasagna
Eggplant
- How to pick: Choose glossy, firm eggplants with green caps. Avoid any wrinkling or discoloration.
- Recipe ideas: Eggplant Parmesan, Grilled Eggplant Sandwiches
The Heart Behind the Harvest
Every tomato, ear of corn, and basket of figs you see at a farmers market has a story—and often, it starts generations back. Farming isn’t just a job; it’s a legacy. Many of the growers you meet have inherited land, tools, and wisdom from their parents and grandparents. Let’s be real: it’s not easy. Between unpredictable weather, rising costs, and the pressure to compete with big-box stores, farmers hustle hard. When they sell their in-season gems to grocery chains, they often make pennies on the dollar. That perfect peach you snagged for $1.50? The farmer might’ve earned just 20 cents if it had gone through a distributor.
Find Farmers Near You with These Handy Apps
If you’re ready to make farmers’ markets a regular weekend ritual, there are some fantastic apps that make it easier than ever to find local growers and fresh produce in your area. Farmish is a free marketplace app that connects you directly with nearby sellers offering everything from garden veggies to backyard eggs. You can browse listings, message sellers, and even find bulk deals without needing to scroll through social media groups. Another great option is GROWR™, an online farmers market platform that lets you search over 300+ items and locate producers using a map-based interface. It’s like Yelp for farm-fresh food, but with fewer ads and more tomatoes. These tools make it simple to support your local food system—and they might just become your new favorite way to shop for in-season goods.
Final Thoughts: Why Buying Local Matters
When you buy directly from a farmer, you’re not just getting food—you’re investing in someone’s livelihood. You’re helping them pay for seeds, equipment, and maybe even their kids’ braces. It’s the difference between scraping by and thriving. So next time you see a farmers’ market sign, don’t just drive past. Stop. Chat. Taste. Buy what’s in season. Because that $5 heirloom tomato might just be the most delicious way to keep a family farm alive—and trust us, it tastes way better than anything shrink-wrapped in aisle seven. Support your local farmers.
