How to Buy at a Farmers Market

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By Gail Martin
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Buy at a Farmers Market

Shopping at a farmers market is the best way to get really fresh and local food. For many years we sold vegetables, homemade bread and jellies at farmers markets, so I'll give you my insider tips for getting the most from a visit to a farmers market.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

a schedule for the market
a tote bag
cash

Step 1

Post the schedule for the farmers market on your calendar so you don't miss the day. If you get there early when the market starts, you'll get the best selection. Sometimes everyone wants the fresh tomatoes or the first cantelopes of the season. Before you know it, they're sold out and latecomers are disappointed. The vendors have to set up real early, so don't be surprised if you come right at closing time and everyone is packing up.
Step 2

Be courteous and friendly. Don't criticize the vendors' produce, as they work hard to grow it and bring it to the market. Yes, it isn't as cheap as the truckloads of produce shipped in from Mexico or Chile, but it's a lot fresher. Most of it was picked that day or else the day before.
Step 3

Tell your friends, fellow workers and neighbors about the market. You could even car pool to save on gasoline and it would help eliminate the parking hassle. Often a market has limited space.
Don't park in front of the venders unless you are really handicaped. Park so there's room for other vehicles. Leave the space in front of the booths for buyers walk along looking at the produce and to and from their cars.
Step 4

Remember who you buy from. If you get great fruit or vegetables, you'll want to go to that vendor again. If you weren't happy with something, you don't want to go back complaining to the wrong vender.
Step 5

Take a quick walk around to all the venders to see what's available. Most venders have the same kind of veggies but some look better than others. Don't pass up something really good though as it might be gone when you walk back.
Step 6

In Kansas the venders are not allowed to use scales as the scales are not accurate when they are moved around. So venders sell by the box, bundle or bag. Sometimes you can bargain on the prices if you're buying a large quantity.
Step 7

The venders recycle clean grocery bags by bagging what they sell in them and are very appreciative of buyers bring them more bags. Some venders even give a bonus to the buyer bringing back canning jars.