How to Shop the Spring Farmer's Market

Many farmer's markets open in the spring when the harvest of fresh asparagus is ready and strawberries bear their first crop of the year. It's the beginning of another year at the market where you'll find some of the best peak-of-the-season produce.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Canvas Shopping Bags
• Hats Or Visors
• Jackets
• Umbrellas
• Ice Chests
• Ice Packs

1. Find out the time, day and location of the farmer's market, if you are not familiar with the city or county you are in, by checking the local newspaper or telephone directory, calling the city offices or the chamber of commerce.
2. Arrive at the market early, if possible, for the best selection and the freshest produce.
3. Bring a jacket and an umbrella or hat just in case of cool or wet weather.
4. Bring small bills and change.
5. Bring a sturdy bag or a cart for all your purchases.
6. Place a cooler with some ice in the trunk of your car to store any perishable produce or products if you do not plan on taking it directly back home to the refrigerator.
7. Take a stroll around the market when you arrive to see what's available. There's usually more than one grower offering the same produce.
8. Expect to choose from produce such as salad greens, citrus, asparagus, strawberries, artichokes, mushrooms, onions and root vegetables.
9. Look for specialty products such as baked goods, vinegars, oils, sauces, cheese, eggs, jams, jellies and chutneys along with fresh cut flowers and potted plants and herbs.
10. Look for specialty services such as knife sharpening, beverage carts and information tables.
11. Enjoy entertainment and special events such as cooking demonstrations, author cookbook signings and guest chef appearances.
12. Ask for the market manager if you can't find what you're looking for. Talk to the growers and vendors if you need some information on buying or storing their produce or products.

Tips & Warnings

• Particular varieties of produce can be in short supply, so the earlier you arrive to shop at the market the better your chances of finding what you want.