Robin Powell robinpowell.com.au

In now: The mango harvest in the Northern Territory is taking off, with fruit from Katherine joining the Darwin pick.

At its best: Podded peas are best fresh; don't let them linger in the crisper. Peas in their pods weighthree times their shelled weight so allow a kilo for four diners.

Best buy: Globe artichokes are slow food in the original sense. Spend some time devouring them petal-by-petal now that they are at their best.

In the vegie patch: Plant lemon balm to lure bees and to enjoy its mild lemon flavour in salads and infusions.