Short Black Fresh

Robinpowell.com.au

In now: It's time to taste the tropics as fruit season peaks in Australia's north. Carambola has a mild sweet flavour. Slice it horizontally to see why it's also called star fruit.

At its best: Parsnip is said to become sweeter after frosts. Test the theory by cooking some now. Peel only if necessary and make a judgement call about the core.

Best buy: Brussels sprouts store well in loose plastic in the crisper.

In the vegie patch: Order tomato seed from online suppliers, sow into jiffy pots and germinate on a warm windowsill to plant out in September.