I am a big fan of buying local whenever possible for so many reasons, not the least of which is supporting your local economy. There is also that you actually know where you food or product is coming from, no jet fuel or Mack trucks had to be used to get it to you, and you put money in the pocket of your neighbor instead of a big corporation.
Farmer's markets are a great way to buy vegetables from local farmers and I highly recommend them over supermarkets. However, be aware of what is seasonal and regional for your area. If you live in Maine and you find a local farmer has oranges in his booth at the farmer's market, they aren't likely to be locally grown. Likewise, if you find tomatoes on any table at any farmer's market in the dead of winter, they were most likely grown indoors or in another country so question the farmer about who grew them and where.
In South Carolina, there are quite a few veggies in season at the moment...
- asparagus
- onions
- cabbage
- garlic
- kale
- spinach
- collard, mustard, turnip greens
- leeks
- radishes
And it's not a vegetable, but...It's Strawberry Pickin' Time!!!!
Click here to find out where to buy local produce in your area. If you aren't sure what's in season in your area, try one of the links below to find out. And then head out to the farmer's market equipped with all you need to get fresh local produce this weekend!
