Your guide to autumn produce at its flavorful peak
September sits at the sweet spot between summer and fall—when stone fruits and tomatoes are still thriving, but cooler-weather crops are beginning to arrive. That means it’s a particularly abundant month for seasonal produce.
From crisp apples and earthy mushrooms to juicy plums and sweet corn, here’s your guide to the best fruits & vegetables in September—plus recipe ideas for enjoying them at their peak.
Fruits in Season in September
Apples
One of the most iconic fall fruits, apples start showing up in early September with varieties like Honeycrisp, Gala, and McIntosh. Bake them into pies, roast them, or slice fresh into salads. → Browse our favorite apple recipes
Pears
Juicy and floral, pears are ideal for baking, poaching, or pairing with cheese and nuts. → Try pears in these homemade fall simmer pots
Plums & Peaches
Late-season stone fruits are still hanging on. Enjoy plums and peaches while they last—great in crisps, compotes, or straight from the fridge.
Figs
Sweet, floral figs are delicate and delicious this time of year. Enjoy fresh with soft cheese or slice into salads.
Grapes
From tart Concords to seedless snackers, September grapes are juicy, antioxidant-rich, and perfect raw or roasted.
Pomegranates & Persimmons
Pomegranate arils are starting to show up at the end of the month—great for adding bursts of flavor to fall dishes. Look out for fuyu persimmons, too, which shine in sweet and savory applications. → Try shaved frozen persimmons with prosciutto
Raspberries & Cranberries
Raspberries peak in early fall and are perfect for smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods. Fresh cranberries arrive later in the month, great for sauces or roasting with veggies.
Vegetables in Season in September
Tomatoes
September is the last call for garden-fresh tomatoes—slice them onto toast, make a quick sauce, or freeze for later.
Corn & Zucchini
These summer staples are still sweet and tender in early September. Grill corn or spiralize zucchini for simple, low-cook meals.
Eggplant & Peppers
Whether bell or spicy, peppers are in their prime. Eggplant also shines roasted or stewed into rich, comforting dishes.
Sweet Potatoes & Beets
Root vegetables are just starting to hit their stride. Roast them, mash them, or grate into slaws and salads.
Keep reading: Everything You Need to Know About Potatoes
Kale & Spinach
Cooler weather brings out the best in leafy greens. Sauté, blend into smoothies, or massage into raw salads.
Parsnips & Carrots
These slightly sweet, nutty root vegetables are perfect roasted or puréed—think of them as a cooler cousin to carrots. Or, try them in a cake: Spiced Parsnip Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Keep reading: What’s the Difference Between Carrots and Parsnips?
Onions (Yellow, White, Red)
Foundational to countless fall dishes, onions are plentiful and ready to be sautéed, caramelized, or slow-roasted.
Maitake Mushrooms
Also called hen-of-the-woods, maitake mushrooms are earthy, meaty, and delicious roasted or tossed into risotto. → Try these must-try mushroom recipes
Craving Cozy Fall Flavors? Try These:
Want More Seasonal Picks?
Don’t forget to check out our ultimate Seasonal Produce Guide for a month-by-month breakdown of the best fruits & vegetables all year long.