The autumn season presents a great opportunity to explore local produce from farms and orchards that offer fresh food with exceptional flavor, nutrients, and beauty.
The greatest advantage to eating locally grown fruits and vegetables is that they are harvested at peak ripeness, so they are incredibly fresh and packed with nutrients. They do not need to be packaged and shipped across the country, which not only cuts down on costs, but also makes them more flavorful!
Southeastern Pennsylvania is packed with farms and orchards, and now is the time to find one close to you. Or, check out a local farmers market to peruse the seasonal harvest and regional products for sale. To find the farmers market nearest your home, check www.localharvest.org, www.eatwellguide.org, or www.wintersunfarms.com.
When out shopping, be sure to ask the farmers about how the food is grown. They also may have great tips and recipes to share for how to best use or preserve the food! Don’t forget to look beyond the table, either. Fruits and vegetables can be used as decorations in centerpieces, wreaths, on doorsteps, or even as place card holders.
So get out there and take advantage of this bountiful season! The harvest is right outside your doorstep, and it is ripe for the picking!