Seasonal Tips

Winter squash--also known as hard squash--comes in round, elongated, scalloped, and pear- shaped varieties with flesh that ranges from golden-yellow to brilliant orange. Most winter squashes, including acorn, butternut, and buttercup varieties, are vine plants whose fruits are harvested when fully mature. They take longer to mature than summer squash--3 months or more--and are best harvested once the cool weather of fall sets in. Winter squash can be stored for a month or more in a cool basement--hence the name winter squash.

Summertime encourages almost everyone to eat more fresh fruit.  After all, the variety seems infinite, the berries are at their best, the prices are inviting, and the fruits look scrumptious. In keeping with the season, ShelfLifeAdvice offers the following tips—from storage to handling to (of course) shelf life—to help you enjoy a fruitful summer.