Seasonal Canning: What to Grow and Preserve Each Month

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Seasonal canning is a rewarding activity that allows you to enjoy the flavors of fresh, homegrown produce all year round. By understanding what to grow and preserve each month, you can maximize your harvest and enjoy delicious, nutritious foods during the off-season.

January and February

During the winter months, focus on preserving foods that store well from previous harvests or are available in winter markets.

  • Vegetables: Root vegetables like carrots, beets, turnips, and parsnips.
  • Fruits: Apples, cranberries, and citrus fruits.
  • Preserves: Apple butter, cranberry sauce, and citrus marmalade.

March and April

As spring approaches, start planting early crops and preserving those that are harvested later in the season.

  • Vegetables: Asparagus, early peas, and spinach.
  • Fruits: Strawberries begin to ripen later in April.
  • Preserves: Strawberry jam, pickled asparagus, and frozen spinach.

May and June

Peak planting season. Harvest a variety of fruits and vegetables to preserve for later.

  • Vegetables: Green beans, zucchini, cucumbers, and lettuce.
  • Fruits: Raspberries, cherries, and early peaches.
  • Preserves: Jams, pickles, and freezing berries.

July and August

High summer harvest. Focus on canning and freezing the abundance of produce.

  • Vegetables: Tomatoes, peppers, corn, and eggplants.
  • Fruits: Blueberries, blackberries, peaches, and plums.
  • Preserves: Tomato sauce, jam, and frozen berries.

September and October

Harvest time for many crops. Prepare for winter by canning and drying.

  • Vegetables: Pumpkins, squash, cabbages, and sweet potatoes.
  • Fruits: Apples, pears, and grapes.
  • Preserves: Apple butter, chutneys, and dried fruits.

November and December

Preserve the last of the season’s bounty and prepare for winter.

  • Vegetables: Root vegetables, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage.
  • Fruits: Apples, cranberries, and citrus.
  • Preserves: Jams, relishes, and pickled vegetables.

Tips for Successful Canning

Choose high-quality produce, use proper canning techniques, and always follow tested recipes to ensure safety and best flavor. Label your jars with the date and contents to keep track of your preserves.

Enjoy the process of seasonal canning and savor the flavors of each month’s harvest all year long!