Buying produce in season isn’t just about peak flavor—it’s also one of the smartest ways to stretch your grocery budget. Fruits and vegetables that are in season are often more abundant, locally sourced, and therefore less expensive than their out-of-season counterparts. On top of that, seasonal produce is typically fresher, more nutritious, and travels fewer miles to your plate.
Here’s how to time your produce purchases for maximum value—and how to pair those choices with cashback strategies to save even more.
Spring: Fresh Greens and First Picks
Spring marks the return of delicate vegetables and bright-tasting fruits. Look for:
- Asparagus
- Spinach
- Arugula
- Strawberries
- Radishes
- Peas
Since these items tend to flood local markets during March to May, prices drop and freshness peaks. Shop farmers markets or local co-ops, and use apps like Ibotta to stack additional savings on brands or stores that carry in-season produce.
Summer: Peak for Berries and Stone Fruits
Summer is a bounty of flavor. It’s the best time of year to buy:
- Blueberries, raspberries, blackberries
- Peaches, plums, nectarines
- Tomatoes
- Corn
- Zucchini
- Melons
This is when fruit prices are at their lowest and flavor is unmatched. Look for store promotions on bulk berries, or buy a crate of peaches and freeze extras for smoothies or baking. You can also get cashback at Walmart or earn cashback with an Instacart gift card if you’re ordering your fresh picks online.
Fall: Root Vegetables and Harvest Favorites
As temperatures drop, hearty vegetables take the spotlight. Stock up on:
- Squash (acorn, butternut, spaghetti)
- Apples
- Sweet potatoes
- Beets
- Brussels sprouts
- Grapes
These items often have long shelf lives, making them excellent for batch cooking or storing. Combine seasonal prices with loyalty card savings at stores like Kroger or Safeway, and consider using a Fluz-linked gift card to get cashback at Whole Foods or earn cashback with a FreshDirect gift card if available in your area.
Winter: Citrus and Cruciferous Veggies Shine
Winter produce might seem sparse, but there’s plenty to enjoy at great prices:
- Oranges, grapefruits, mandarins
- Cabbage, cauliflower
- Kale
- Pomegranates
- Leeks
- Turnips
Citrus fruits are at their sweetest from December through February, and cruciferous vegetables are ideal for roasting and soups. Use a combination of digital coupons, Rakuten browser extensions, and gift card rewards to double up on savings at your go-to grocery stores.
Pro Tip: Freeze the Surplus
If you see seasonal produce on sale, don’t hesitate to buy extra and freeze. Berries, bananas, greens, and even diced squash freeze well with minimal prep, giving you flavor year-round at a fraction of the off-season price.
Cashback Stacking to Maximize Seasonal Savings
Timing your purchases is just the start. The best way to amplify your savings is by stacking cashback tools. For example:
- Use Fluz to buy a gift card for your preferred grocery store (like Instacart, BJ’s, or Whole Foods)
- Apply any available store coupons or digital promos
- Check Ibotta for matching rebates
- Activate Rakuten if you’re ordering online
Each tool adds a layer of savings without adding effort. You’re simply optimizing the checkout process.
Final Thoughts
Knowing when to buy seasonal produce puts you in control of both your health and your budget. With a little planning and the right cashback tools, you can eat fresher and smarter all year long. Let the seasons guide your menu—and your savings.
