Desert Southwest calendar
Apple
Malus domestica · rose family · the fruit, a pome: the flower base grown around the core
At its best in California Desert from early November to late December. Right now it’s just arriving.
The season
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Field notes
Choosing
Firm, no soft spots, fragrant at the stem.
Keeping
Fridge crisper, weeks — the coldest part keeps them crisp.
Varieties to know
Granny Smith — tart and firm, holds its shape in a pie.
Honeycrisp — very crisp and juicy, best eaten raw.
McIntosh — soft and tangy, cooks down fast into sauce.
Also in season in California Desert
Avocado
just arriving
Basil
winding down
Beets
just arriving
Cauliflower
just arriving
Celery
just arriving
Cilantro
just arriving
Season dates for the Desert Southwest calendar, checked locally.