Featured Crop
California Grown Pomegranates
A fall favorite, pomegranates are packed with tart, juicy seeds that add a burst of flavor to salads, drinks, and desserts.
Cooking classes
Pomegranate Chia Pudding Parfait
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Set Time: 4 hours
Pomegranate Glazed Salmon
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Varieties
Wonderful, Early Foothill and Granada excel in our Mediterranean climate.
Prep Tips
Enjoy seeds fresh, sprinkle over salads or press for juice. Score and open in water for easy seeding.
Nutrition
Packed with potent antioxidants and vitamin C. Studies show benefits for heart health and exercise performance.
Cultivation
California’s climate provides the ideal environment for growing pomegranates. The trees thrive in hot, dry summers and mild winters, and they prefer well-drained soil. Pomegranate trees are typically planted in early spring, and it takes about 6-7 months for the fruit to mature. Pomegranates need minimal irrigation once established, making them well-suited to California’s water-scarce regions.
When can I buy pomegranates?
Pomegranates are typically available from late summer through fall, with peak harvest occurring between September and November. During these months, local farmers’ markets and grocery stores offer fresh pomegranates that are ripe and ready for consumption. hen purchasing pomegranates, look for fruit that feels heavy for its size, as this indicates juiciness and ripeness.
Nutritional value of pomegranates
Pomegranates are packed with antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and potassium. A 1/2 cup serving of seeds provides about 70 calories, 15 grams of carbs, and is a great source of fiber. Regular consumption can support heart health, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity.
How to store pomegranates
Store whole pomegranates in a cool, dry place for up to a month. Once the fruit is cut, the seeds can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. For long-term storage, you can freeze the seeds to maintain their freshness. To do so, spread the seeds on a baking sheet, freeze them individually, and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps the seeds intact and preserves their flavor.
Explore other crops
Apples
Crisp and sweet, California apples are harvested in late summer and fall, perfect for snacking, baking, and cider.
Zucchini
A tender, mild squash that thrives in warm weather, zucchini is delicious grilled, sautéed, or baked into bread.
Leeks
Leeks are a mild, onion-like vegetable with a subtle sweetness and a tender texture, commonly used in soups, stews, and sautés.
Cucumbers
Crisp and refreshing, cucumbers are a hydrating summer vegetable perfect for salads, pickling, or snacking.