June marks the beginning of summer — a time when gardens are filled with vibrant colors and flavors, and farmers markets brim with the season’s finest produce. In June, we also celebrate National Fresh Fruits & Veggies Month. There are so many benefits of eating and shopping for fresh, local produce. Let's get into celebrating and discover some of the best vegetables to grow in Nebraska!
Reasons we love fresh produce
Nothing beats the taste of fresh fruits and vegetables, especially when they're picked at the peak of ripeness and enjoyed straight from the garden or farmers market. Few things can compare to the juiciness of a fresh peach or the crisp crunch of a garden-fresh cucumber!
Beyond taste, fresh produce is bursting with nutrients, providing our bodies with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being. When you choose fresh produce, you’re supporting local farmers and growers and investing in your community!
Discover the best vegetables to grow in Nebraska
When it comes to the best vegetables to grow in Nebraska, the state's diverse climate and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for a wide range of crops!
Tomatoes
Tomatoes thrive in Nebraska's warm summers. Whether you're growing beefsteak tomatoes for slicing, cherry tomatoes for snacking or Roma tomatoes for sauces and canning, there's nothing quite like the flavor of homegrown tomatoes.
Sweet corn
Sweet corn is a summer staple! Planting varieties suited to Nebraska's climate ensures a bountiful harvest of ears that are perfect for boiling, grilling or enjoying fresh off the cob.
Green beans
Whether you prefer bush beans or pole beans, green beans are a prolific and easy-to-grow vegetable that thrives in Nebraska's warm summers. With proper care and regular harvesting, you can enjoy a continuous supply of crisp, tender beans throughout the summer months.
Zucchini and summer squash
With their rapid growth and abundant yields, zucchini and summer squash are well-suited to Nebraska's growing conditions. These versatile vegetables can be used in a variety of dishes, from grilled skewers to zucchini bread, making them a popular choice for home gardeners.
Bell peppers
Bell peppers thrive in Nebraska's sunny summers, producing crisp, sweet fruits that are perfect for stuffing, grilling or adding to salads and stir-fries. Choose from a rainbow of colors, including red, yellow, orange and green, to add visual appeal to your garden and your plate.
Visit the Gretna Farmers Market
As we celebrate National Fresh Fruits & Veggies Month in Nebraska, let's take the time to savor the flavors of the season and appreciate our local farms and gardens. Whether you're growing your own vegetables or shopping at the Gretna Farmers Market, there's no better time to enjoy the goodness of fresh produce and reap the health benefits it provides.
Cheers to a summer of eating fresh! We hope to see you at one of our farmers markets, Saturdays from 8 a.m. to noon in downtown Gretna on McKenna Ave!
