FARMERS MARKETS
The weather has been rather mild this winter, so many are starting their gardens early this year. If this weather continues, it could be an early crop producer for many. Now we can only hope that a heavy frost,downpours, or heat does not wipe them out.
Farmers Markets usually open up the first week of May in this area. The market in downtown Kansas City is open year round - but most of their items are trucked in from out of state. I was just told that Riverside’s farmers market opens next weekend.
I am a huge supporter of farmers markets that only allow locally grown produce rather than trucked in produce, and I will drive that extra mile to make sure the produce I am buying is locally grown. I feel that it is important to know where the produce comes from and how the
farmers/vendors grow it. By that I mean is it hot house grown or preferably grown naturally in the ground, what it is fertilized with, and any insecticides that are used on the plants. That is very important information to me. I want to know what I am feeding my family.
In our road trips on weekends, we also look for and support local farmers old fashioned roadside stands. This is where the farmer sets up a stand on his property and sells his excess produce. I love these and often get some fantastic buys! I also enjoy getting to know local farmers! There is
nothing like a good old farmer’s tale!!!
Organically grown produce is becoming more and more available to consumers at the markets. This is a good thing for the consumer!Watch your markets this year for vendors who provide this produce.
I am already receiving emails, newsletters and postings on Facebook from vendors that we buy from, and I am getting very excited for them to open!
I am looking forward to a great year for local farmers! And for the consumers!
Happy shopping!
Marilyn
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