Fresh produce shows the most dramatic seasonal price swings. Here's when to buy for the best deals:
Winter (January-March): Citrus Season
Winter time is the best time to enjoy fresh citrus
Best Buys:
- Citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruits, lemons)
- Winter squash (butternut, acorn)
- Root vegetables (carrots, beets, turnips)
- Cabbage and Brussels sprouts
Avoid:
- Fresh tomatoes (prices spike in winter—use canned instead)
- Berries (expensive imports)
- Stone fruits (peaches, plums—wait until summer)
Smopper Tip: Stock up on citrus when prices drop in January and February. Oranges and grapefruits store well for weeks in the refrigerator.
Spring (April-June): Fresh Greens & Berries Arrive
Nothing beats the taste of fresh asparagus for dinner
Best Buys:
- Strawberries (prices drop dramatically from April through summer)
- Asparagus
- Lettuce and leafy greens
- Radishes and spring onions
- Peas
Avoid:
- Winter squash (prices rising as supplies dwindle)
- Grapes (wait until late summer)
Smopper Tip: May brings peak strawberry season—perfect time to buy in bulk and freeze for smoothies and baking throughout the year.
Summer (July-September): Peak Produce Season
Fresh berries on a summer day
Summer is when Pittsburgh-area farmers markets overflow with local produce, and grocery store prices reflect that abundance.
Best Buys:
- Tomatoes (cheapest from June through September)
- All berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- Stone fruits (peaches, plums, nectarines, cherries)
- Sweet corn
- Zucchini and summer squash
- Cucumbers
- Green beans
- Watermelon and cantaloupe
- Grapes (prices drop dramatically in late August/September)
Avoid:
- Root vegetables (wait until Fall)
- Winter squash (not in season yet)
Smopper Tip: This is prime canning and freezing season. Use Smopper to find the best prices on bulk tomatoes, berries, and peaches, then preserve them for winter.
Fall (October-December): Harvest Time
Beets are superfoods
Best Buys:
- Apples and pears
- Winter squash (butternut, acorn, pumpkin)
- Sweet potatoes
- Cranberries
- Brussels sprouts
- Cabbage and cauliflower
- Pomegranates
Avoid:
- Summer produce (tomatoes, berries, stone fruits)
- Asparagus
Smopper Tip: November is peak time for buying winter squash. They store for months in a cool, dry place—perfect for soups and roasts all winter long.