September brings the best of two seasons. Late summer favorites overlap with the very first signs of fall. The variety is a treat for home preservers and families who look forward to filling the pantry with the flavors of the harvest.

What’s In Season

Fruits finishing their season include strawberries, blackberries, raspberries, peaches, and nectarines. These don’t last much longer, so now is the time for making quick jams, fruit sauces, or simple preserves. Plums, melons, figs, and grapes are plentiful. Apple and pear picking kicks off in many places. Cranberries and pomegranates start to show up later in the month.

September’s vegetables span summer and fall varieties. Corn, green beans, cucumbers, summer squash, bell peppers, tomatoes, and eggplant are holding on, but will be gone soon. Enjoy them fresh, canned, or pickled. Winter squash, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, and celery root start to come in strong. These will keep well when stored right, and add comfort to cool-weather cooking.

Ideas for the Pantry

Pickle crisp green beans or cucumbers before the plants wind down. Tomato sauce is still a must-make, and this is the prime time for canning or freezing it. If you love salsa, gather those end-of-season hot peppers and tomatoes and get a batch on the shelf.

​Applesauce, pear jam, and fig preserves are classics that work well as gifts and snacks. Try making fruit butters from apples, pears, or plums. These are perfect for spreading on toast all winter.

If you have extra space in the freezer, diced peppers, corn, and fruit are easy to save for later. Dehydrated apples, pears, and even melons make simple snacks that travel well.

Make the Most of this Month

The end of summer and the start of fall mean plenty of choices. Take advantage of bulk produce prices and farm stands while they’re still offering fresh, local food. Preserve a little bit each week to spread out the work, and involve kids or friends if you want help and company.

Preserving builds memories as well as meals. Each jar or bag is a taste of the season and the effort you put in. Enjoy trying something new or going back to your favorite recipes. September’s transition is the perfect moment to use your preserving skills.

Happy Preserving!