Fall Colors Include the Bright Hues of Persimmons, Pomegranates, Apples, Squash, and Chard - San Francisco Bay Times

"The Castro Farmers' Market is nearing its seasonal closure on November 19, 2025. The summer season at the market brims with stone fruit, tomatoes, and melons, but, now that we are in early fall, it is time to turn our sights to the variety of produce that October brings. From squash, nuts, and artichokes, to apples, pomegranates, and persimmons, fall is an exciting time at the farmers' market!"

"With such a sweet, distinctive flavor and gorgeous orange color, persimmons are a fall fruit superstar. Hachiya and Fuyu persimmons are the most commonly grown varieties in California and have a short season lasting from September to December and peaking in October. Fuyu persimmons are round can be eaten fresh like an apple. They are ripe when they are firm and yellow-orange and stay good on the counter for 2-3 weeks."

"Hachiya persimmons are pointed like an acorn and are best when fully ripe and incorporated into a recipe. Hachiya persimmons are ripe when they have the squishy texture of a water balloon and their skin is a deep orange. This indicates that the fruit's tannins have broken down, making it super sweet with a jelly-like texture. Once ripe, Hachiya persimmons only stay edible for 2-3 days."

The Castro Farmers' Market will close for the season on November 19, 2025. October ushers in a variety of fall produce including squash, nuts, artichokes, apples, pomegranates, and persimmons. Two primary persimmon varieties are Fuyu and Hachiya: Fuyu are round, firm, and yellow-orange and can be eaten like an apple, staying good on the counter for 2–3 weeks; Hachiya are acorn-shaped, must be fully soft to be sweet, and remain edible for only 2–3 days once ripe. Pomegranate season also begins in October, with juicy seeds ideal for snacking. Allard Farms and Arata Fruit are noted sources for persimmons and pomegranates. When Castro closes, the Divisadero Market (Sundays 9 am–1 pm) and Fillmore Market (Saturdays 9 am–1 pm) provide weekend alternatives.

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