By ALEXIS AMORESE SHEFFIELD 

Boyle County Extension

Last weekend, some area farmers markets were postponed due to weather, so many are planning on opening this weekend. Here are some tips to getting the most out of your area farmers market.

•  Shop early. First of the season offerings like blueberries, peaches and sweet corn will quickly disappear from market tables. Arrive early for the best selection.

• Make friends with farmers. The person selling you produce is likely the person who grew it. Growers are full of information, including everything from when the product was picked to the best way to prepare it for the table. This is your opportunity to find out about what you eat, where it comes from and who you are supporting with your purchase.

• Shop for produce that is in season. Smaller markets offer fruits and vegetables that are ripened on the vine right in your own community or surrounding area. Larger markets might include produce from no more than 100-150 miles away. Climate will determine what is in peak season. Eating in season means eating the best that nature has to offer at any given time. This is the most efficient way to take advantage of the earth’s bounty.

• Learn the difference between heirloom varieties and those mass produced for large markets. The charm of a farmers market is finding a source for that special tomato your grandmother grew. Heirlooms are meant to be ripened on the vine and your local market is the place to find variety and flavor not available just anywhere.

• Ask about growing methods. Many small farms employ organic growing methods but are not able to afford the expense of becoming certified under the National Organic Program. An apple grown locally without pesticides may be a better choice than a certified organic one that has traveled across the globe. Keeping pesticides out of our water supply and using sustainable practices that prevent erosion help care for the local environment and ensure the land will be usable in the future.

• Buy for value but don’t quibble over price. Some crops may cost less than their grocery store counterparts but other specialty or hard to find items may cost more due to economies of scale. Often, produce found at your local market has been hand-raised with lots of TLC and the difference in flavor and quality should be evident.

• Take cash and a reusable shopping bag. Some large markets do accept debit/credit cards but many neighborhood markets aren’t equipped for electronic transactions. By bringing your own reusable shopping bag, you help eliminate the need for excess plastic which allows for a more organic experience all around.