1. Check the label for country of origin. If it’s from another hemisphere—Australia, Argentina—it’s probably not in season in the United States.
2. Even better, seek out local labels. If it’s locally grown, it’s likely in season in your region.
3. Ask your produce manager. Most can guide you to in-season selections.
4. Be price-savvy. If it’s wildly expensive, skip it; it’s probably not in season.
5. Buy what looks best. If it’s limp, wilted, and mushy, it may have been shipped out of season.
6. Hang it on the wall. Seasonal food calendars can keep you in touch with the current crops. (Download one for your region at deliciousliving.com/seasonal-eating.)
7. Call your local department of agriculture. They’ll have a complete list of what’s in season in your area.
8. Log onto localharvest.org or greenpeople.org—two of many sites that connect consumers with local food sources.