Why buy from farmer’s markets? There are a plethora of reasons. The food you buy is healthier and tastier. The money you spend supports local farmers and sustainable agriculture. And you can talk to the person who grew your food. Learn what makes the particular variety special, the methods of organic cultivation involved and how the farmer recommends you prepare it.

Farmer’s market produce looks homegrown – because it is! Sizes and shapes vary because yields are not standardized for supermarkets. Some beets may appear runty. Others may be oversized. That’s normal. Similarly, don’t be scared of the occasional protuberance on a tomato or an odd bug crawling here or there. These are all signs of a natural ecological processes. If you have any doubts, just take a bite to discover the immeasurable rewards in flavor and nuance.

Our guide covers everything you need to know to become a farmer’s market expert. Master the lingo, find the best options in your area and learn what to ask sellers. Chances are there’s a farmer’s market coming up, so let us help you get ready. After all, there may be a highly unusual variety of apricot with your name on it.