August is one of the best months to eat locally in New Jersey. Farm stands, farmers markets and grocery stores across the Garden State are filled with colorful fruits and vegetables grown close to home.

From juicy Jersey tomatoes and sweet peaches to crisp cucumbers and freshly picked corn, there is no shortage of seasonal food to enjoy. For families searching for what’s in season in New Jersey in August, this guide highlights some of the month’s most popular local produce and offers simple ideas for bringing it to the table.

At Spring Valley Turkey Farm in Old Bridge, New Jersey, we understand the value of knowing where your food comes from. Although our fresh, locally raised turkeys are a holiday tradition, supporting New Jersey agriculture is important throughout every season.

Why August Is a Great Time to Buy Local in New Jersey

New Jersey farmers grow more than 100 different varieties of fruits and vegetables. According to Rutgers Cooperative Extension, the Garden State ranks among the nation’s leading producers of several crops, including blueberries, peaches, tomatoes, bell peppers, eggplant, cucumbers, spinach and squash.

August falls near the height of the growing season. That means shoppers can often find a particularly wide selection of freshly harvested produce at local farm stands, community farmers markets, supermarkets and roadside markets.

Choosing seasonal New Jersey produce can help you:

• Enjoy fruits and vegetables near their natural peak of flavor
• Support local farmers and agricultural businesses
• Learn more about where your food is grown
• Add more variety to summer meals
• Reduce the distance some foods travel before reaching your kitchen

Availability can vary depending on the weather, location and individual farm. The New Jersey Seasonal Produce Availability Chart is a helpful resource for seeing when different Jersey-grown crops are typically harvested.

What Fruits Are in Season in New Jersey in August?

Jersey Peaches

Few foods capture the flavor of a New Jersey summer quite like a ripe local peach. New Jersey peach season generally stretches through much of the summer, making August an excellent time to enjoy them.

Peaches can be eaten fresh, grilled, baked or added to both sweet and savory recipes. Try slicing Jersey peaches into:

• Yogurt or oatmeal
• Summer salads
• Homemade cobbler
• Fruit salsa
• Grilled chicken or turkey dishes
• Ice cream or frozen desserts

Rutgers notes that New Jersey’s peach season can extend from early July into September, depending on the variety. Learn more about locally developed peach varieties through Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station.

Blueberries

New Jersey blueberry season typically peaks earlier in the summer, but late-season blueberries may still be available during the beginning of August. Availability will depend on the farm, weather and blueberry variety.

Fresh blueberries are easy to freeze for use later in smoothies, pancakes, sauces and baked goods. To freeze them, spread clean, dry berries in a single layer on a tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a sealed freezer-safe container.

Blackberries

Fresh blackberries may also be available from New Jersey growers in August. Their sweet-tart flavor works well in fruit salads, preserves, pies, drinks and simple summer desserts.

Because berry availability can change quickly, check with your local farmers market or farm stand before making a special trip.

Melons and Watermelon

August is a wonderful time to look for locally grown cantaloupe, muskmelon and watermelon. A chilled slice of watermelon is refreshing on a hot New Jersey afternoon, while cantaloupe pairs well with breakfast, salads and appetizers.

For an easy summer side dish, combine watermelon with cucumber, fresh herbs and a light vinaigrette.

Early Apples

New Jersey’s main apple season arrives later in the year, but some early apple varieties may begin appearing toward the end of summer. These early apples can be enjoyed fresh or used in salads, sauces and baked recipes.

What Vegetables Are in Season in New Jersey in August?

Jersey Tomatoes

Jersey tomatoes are one of the state’s most recognizable summer crops. Tomatoes become increasingly abundant beginning in July and remain a major part of New Jersey’s late-summer harvest. Rutgers Cooperative Extension highlights their versatility in salads, sandwiches and many other meals.

August tomatoes can be used to make:

• Tomato and mozzarella salad
• BLT sandwiches
• Fresh tomato sauce
• Bruschetta
• Tomato pie
• Salsa
• Gazpacho
• Tomato and cucumber salad

When tomatoes are exceptionally fresh, they do not need much preparation. A little salt, pepper and olive oil may be all you need.

Sweet Corn

Fresh Jersey corn is another late-summer favorite. Corn purchased soon after harvest is naturally sweet and can be boiled, steamed, roasted or grilled.

Serve it directly on the cob, cut it into salads or use it in corn salsa, chowder and summer side dishes. Grilled corn also pairs well with fresh herbs, lime juice, cheese and mild spices.

Cucumbers

Cucumbers are especially popular during hot weather because they are crisp, light and refreshing. Slice them into salads, add them to sandwiches or turn them into refrigerator pickles.

A simple cucumber salad made with vinegar, onion, herbs and a touch of sweetness is an easy addition to a summer cookout.

Bell Peppers

New Jersey-grown bell peppers add color and crunch to August meals. Green, red, yellow and orange peppers can be eaten raw, grilled, sautéed, roasted or stuffed.

Try adding local peppers to:

• Pasta salad
• Kabobs
• Turkey sandwiches
• Homemade pizza
• Omelets
• Fajitas
• Garden salads

Eggplant

Eggplant thrives during the warm summer months and is commonly available in New Jersey during August. It can be grilled, roasted, breaded, sautéed or baked.

Popular dishes include eggplant Parmesan, grilled eggplant sandwiches, caponata, ratatouille and roasted vegetable pasta.

Summer Squash and Zucchini

Zucchini and yellow summer squash are abundant during the summer growing season. Their mild flavor makes them easy to use in savory dishes, baked goods and grilled vegetable platters.

Use zucchini and summer squash in:

• Zucchini bread
• Vegetable noodles
• Stir-fries
• Grilled side dishes
• Frittatas
• Soups
• Pasta dishes

Green Beans

Fresh green beans are a versatile August vegetable. They can be steamed until tender-crisp, roasted with garlic, added to salads or simmered with potatoes and herbs.

Look for pods that feel firm and snap easily.

Beets and Carrots

Depending on the grower and planting schedule, locally grown beets and carrots may be available in August. Both vegetables can be roasted, shredded into salads or served alongside grilled meats.

Do not automatically discard the tops. Fresh beet greens and carrot tops can sometimes be incorporated into recipes when properly cleaned and prepared.

Cabbage and Leafy Greens

Certain varieties of cabbage, lettuce, kale, chard and other greens may be found throughout the New Jersey growing season. Availability can fluctuate during periods of extreme summer heat, so selection may differ among markets and farms.

The Jersey Tastes Harvest of the Month program offers educational resources covering many locally grown foods, including cabbage, corn, peaches, peppers, squash, tomatoes and zucchini.

Easy Ways to Enjoy Jersey Fresh Produce in August

You do not need a complicated recipe to enjoy summer produce. When ingredients are fresh and flavorful, simple preparation is often best.

Here are a few ideas for an August meal featuring seasonal New Jersey produce:

A Jersey Summer Salad

Combine sliced tomatoes, cucumbers, sweet corn, bell peppers and fresh herbs. Finish it with olive oil, vinegar, salt and pepper.

Grilled Summer Vegetables

Grill zucchini, eggplant, peppers, onions and corn. Serve them as a side dish or add them to sandwiches, pasta and grain bowls.

Fresh Peach Salsa

Dice peaches, tomatoes, peppers and onion. Add lime juice and herbs for a fresh salsa that can be served with grilled turkey, chicken or fish.

Garden Vegetable Turkey Burgers

Top turkey burgers with Jersey tomatoes, grilled peppers, lettuce and homemade cucumber pickles for a local twist on a summer favorite.

Tomato and Corn Pasta

Toss warm pasta with fresh tomatoes, cooked corn, garlic, olive oil and herbs. Add grilled turkey or chicken for a heartier meal.

Where to Find Seasonal Produce in New Jersey

New Jersey residents have many options for finding locally grown food. Depending on where you live, you may find August produce at:

• Local farmers markets
• Farm stands
• Pick-your-own farms
• Community-supported agriculture programs
• Independent grocery stores
• Supermarkets carrying Jersey Fresh products

Look for the Jersey Fresh label when shopping. You can also use New Jersey’s agricultural resources to learn more about seasonal foods and local producers.

Before visiting a farm or market, confirm its current hours and product availability. Harvest schedules can change because of heat, rain and other growing conditions.

Celebrating New Jersey Agriculture All Year Long

Buying local does more than fill your kitchen with seasonal food. It helps maintain a connection between New Jersey families and the farmers who grow and raise food throughout the state.

Summer may be known for tomatoes, corn and peaches, but it is also an important season on farms preparing for the months ahead. At Spring Valley Turkey Farm, the work behind our holiday season begins long before Thanksgiving arrives.

Our family farm in Old Bridge, NJ, is proud to be part of New Jersey’s agricultural community. We raise fresh turkeys for Thanksgiving and Christmas, helping local families continue a meaningful holiday tradition.

As summer moves forward, we encourage you to visit New Jersey farm stands, explore community farmers markets and enjoy the many fruits and vegetables available during August.

Looking Ahead to Thanksgiving in New Jersey

It may feel early to think about Thanksgiving while the sun is shining and Jersey tomatoes are still in season, but the holiday will be here before we know it.

Spring Valley Turkey Farm offers fresh, locally raised Thanksgiving turkeys to customers from Old Bridge, Middlesex County, Monmouth County and communities throughout Central New Jersey and beyond.

Not sure what size turkey your family will need? Read our guide, What Size Thanksgiving Turkey Do You Need?, for helpful serving estimates, leftover planning tips and advice for choosing the right turkey for your holiday table.

Our turkeys are processed fresh shortly before pickup and are never left sitting frozen for months before reaching your holiday table. Turkey reservations traditionally open around Labor Day, and availability is limited.

Follow Spring Valley Turkey Farm for reservation announcements, farm updates and helpful Thanksgiving planning information.

In the meantime, enjoy everything August has to offer—and celebrate the farmers who make summer in the Garden State taste so good.

Frequently Asked Questions About August Produce in New Jersey

What produce is in season in New Jersey in August?

Commonly available August produce may include tomatoes, sweet corn, peaches, cucumbers, bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, summer squash, green beans, melons, cabbage, carrots, beets and some leafy greens. Exact availability varies by location, weather and farm.

Are Jersey tomatoes in season in August?

Yes. August is generally an excellent time to find fresh Jersey tomatoes at farm stands, farmers markets and stores throughout New Jersey.

Are New Jersey peaches available in August?

Yes. Many New Jersey peach varieties are harvested during August, although availability depends on the variety and the season’s weather conditions.

Where can I buy Jersey Fresh produce?

Jersey Fresh produce can be found at participating supermarkets, farm stands, farmers markets, community-supported agriculture programs and pick-your-own farms throughout New Jersey.

When can I reserve a Thanksgiving turkey from Spring Valley Turkey Farm?

Spring Valley Turkey Farm traditionally begins accepting Thanksgiving turkey reservations around Labor Day. Follow the farm’s official social media pages and website for the annual reservation announcement.