ESPEarly summer is a spectacular time to shop, as local harvests transition from spring crops to the robust heat of the summer sun. Local favorites include:
• Watermelon & Melons: A desert staple and highly hydrating. Watermelons and cantaloupes ripen and reach peak flavor.
• Peaches & Plums: Early varieties of stone fruits begin harvesting in June and July.
• Cherries: Sweet varieties such as Bing and Rainier have a fleeting early-summer window.
• Berries: Strawberries continue from late spring, while blackberries also reach their peak.
• Tomatoes: Peak flavor begins in June for both homegrown and market varieties.
• Squash: Fast-growing zucchini and yellow summer squash are highly prolific and widely available.
• Cucumbers: Perfect for the early summer heat.
• Sweet Corn: Harvest ramps up quickly in June and July.
• Green Beans: One of the earliest vegetables to hit local markets.
Farmers in the El Paso/Las Cruces area agree that desert-friendly plants like peppers, chiles, and figs also begin establishing themselves nicely during this period.
