Late-summer heat extends growing season for Rockford-area farmers

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — Although the fall equinox is just days away, the weather across the Rockford region feels more like mid-summer.

And for local farmers and market vendors, that’s not just a seasonal surprise — it’s a boost.

Unseasonably warm temperatures have allowed producers to keep harvesting and selling summer crops well into September, a rare extension of the growing season.

“It’s great to have pollinators still around, because when it gets colder those slow down,” said Elaine Simon of Middle Sister Farm of South Beloit. “So, for things like zucchinis that need to be pollinated, that’s still going.”

At the Edgebrook Farmers Market, vendors say the extended warmth means they’re still bringing in tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and other summer favorites — crops that typically begin to fade as cooler weather sets in.

For Stateline residents, the extended season means more opportunities to support small growers and enjoy fresh, local produce.

“We don’t appreciate farmers enough,” said market regular Karen Alunni. “Wonderful things here, wonderful things there. Raines honeybee farm — some of the best honey in the region. And there’s soaps. [The] garlic is amazing.”

The Edgebrook Farmers Market runs through October 29.