Locally Grown Tastes Better

If you have been reading my blogs, you already know I am a big fan of eating locally whenever possible (see April 22 blog). Summertime makes it easier with fruits and vegetables being grown closer to home.

A great option is to grow your own. I started with one potted tomato plant on my patio and added pots each year until I was brave enough to plant raised beds of veggies in my yard. No step is too small.

Another great option is to look for local farmers’ markets. Most towns have them at least once a week, and it is a fun opportunity to see a variety of foods grown and raised by your neighbors. It is also amazing how much better the vegetables and fruit taste when they are freshly harvested.

A third idea is to check your grocery store for a local produce table. My store has a whole counter of vegetables from farms within 15 miles, including cucumbers, tomatoes, greens, and summer squash. I always stop there before looking at the other veggies in the store.

Lastly, look for farm stands on your drive home. I love farm stands because you can stop and buy on a whim based on what is freshly picked that day. You usually get to meet the farmers and their family members, too, like at farmers’ markets.

Just One Thing to do:  Stop at a farm stand or farmers’ market this week to buy some fresh, local vegetables and fruits!
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