Fall is marked by changing leaves, cool weather, cozy sweaters, and carving pumpkins. But bigger than that, the traditional purpose of the season is the fall harvest! This is the time of year when we reap the harvest of our hard work planting, watering, and fertilizing over the spring and summer months.
What is harvesting?
Harvest comes from the Old English word for autumn, Haerfest. It means to reap, gather, and store what has been grown. This season is associated with abundance and joy as harvesting is the culmination of months of hard work. Many cultures around the world celebrate the harvest season with traditions and festivals, including Thanksgiving, all rooted in gratitude for crops and food.
What fruits and vegetables can be harvested in the fall?
Pumpkins: Pumpkins are fully ripe when they have a firm rind, as well as a robust color throughout. You can also tap on the rind and listen for a hollow thump. We have hundreds of pumpkins in varying colors and shapes to choose from, and they’re grown locally on Bucks County farm.
Corn: Corn is ready about 60 to 80 days after planting. The best time to harvest is when the kernels produce a milky liquid. Peel back the husk and puncture a kernel to test.
Flint or native American corn comes in a range of colors including blue, white, and red. Its hard “flint-like” shells give the corn its name. While it’s edible, this corn variety adds a beautiful pop of color to your fall décor.
Other fall crops include: apples, zucchini, squash, beets, carrots, green beans, cabbage, kale, broccoli, celery, Brussels sprouts, grapes, pears, and pomegranates.
So go ahead, sit back with your mug of warm apple cider. Admire your picture-perfect pumpkins and mums, but don’t forget the farmers who made this season possible! Looking to plan your own fall harvest next year? Stop into our garden center for all of the supplies you need to get started. You can also talk to one of our experts about crops that thrive in the Bucks County soil and climate. Happy harvesting!
