Summer vacation has begun for many school kids across the state. What better way to entertain them than a trip to your regional farmers market, especially during Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month? There are plenty of fruits and vegetables to be had for sensational side dishes and summer salads. Plus, your children can continue learning by talking one-on-one with farmers that grow their own food.
At the four state-operated farmers markets in Asheville, Charlotte, Colfax and Raleigh you can find an array of fruits and vegetables ranging from blackberries and bok choy to peaches and peas. Here’s a breakdown of what’s available at the four farmers markets this week.
WNC Farmers Market, Asheville – Yellow squash and zucchini are just beginning to show up in Asheville. There’s also a good supply of yellow and heirloom tomatoes available, and a light supply of pickling cucumbers. Early varieties of clingstone peaches are starting to show up, as well as some watermelons and cantaloupes. There is still a good supply of hanging baskets and bedding plants available, too.
Charlotte Regional Farmers Market, Charlotte – Farmers will offer a variety asparagus, blackberries, blueberries, carrots, cabbage, cucumbers, garlic, green onions, greenhouse tomatoes, kale, kohlrabi, leafy greens, peaches, radishes, spring onions, squash, sweet potatoes, Swiss chard, white potatoes and zucchini.
Robert G. Shaw Piedmont Triad Farmers Market, Colfax – Be on the lookout for beans, beets, blackberries, blueberries, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, collards, cucumbers, honey, kale, lettuces, okra, peaches, zucchini, strawberries, greenhouse tomatoes, as well as meat, eggs and seafood.
State Farmers Market, Raleigh – Green beans, beets, blackberries, blueberries, bok choy, cabbage, carrots, collards, corn, kale, lettuce, onions, peaches, peas, red potatoes, spinach, squash, tomatoes, eggs, milk, cheese, meats and seafood.
And, if you’re looking to compare prices before you shop, the department’s Market News has recently started compiling local food marketing information. You can download pricing information for state-operated farmers markets, as well as locally produced beef, pork and lamb prices. Please note that prices may vary at your local farmers market.