What’s in Season in the Springtime?
By Margaret Clayton, Dietetic Intern
Seasonal Produce Series:
Spring is one of the best times to shop for local, seasonal produce in Maine. As we move away from the colder winter months, lighter, fresher, and more colorful dishes start to sound more appealing, and spring produce makes that possible.
There are more advantages to seasonal eating than you might expect. Seasonal foods are often more affordable because they’re more abundant. They’re also picked at their peak, so you get the best flavor and highest nutritional value. Plus, buying in season supports local farmers and food businesses throughout the year.
Keeping track of what’s in season can be a fun family activity. Use this seasonal food chart to let kids pick out a new fruit or vegetable to try, and get them involved in cooking and tasting it with you.
April – May
(A) = more commonly available in April
- Arugula (A)
- Asparagus (M)
- Black Eyed Peas (J)
- Boysenberries (J)
- Broccoli Rabe (M)
- Carrots (J)
- Cherries (J)
- Chili Peppers (J)
- Chives (J)
- Cilantro (J)
- Currants (J)
- Fiddleheads (A)
- Garlic Scapes (M)
- Green Onions (M)
(M) = more commonly available in May
- Horseradish (A)
- Kohlrabi (J)
- Lamb’s Quarters (M)
- Lettuce (M)
- Mint (J)
- Mushrooms (A)
- Nettles (A)
- Onions (M)
- Oregano (J)
- Pea Shoots (M)
- Peas (M)
- Purslane (M)
- Radishes (M)
- Ramps (A)
(J) = more commonly available in June
- Rhubarb (M)
- Rosemary (J)
- Sage (J)
- Snap Peas (J)
- Snow Peas (J)
- Sorrel (M)
- Spinach (M)
- Sprouts (A)
- Tarragon (J)
- Watercress (A)
