ASAP | From Here | Appalachian Sustainable Agriculture Project

With flooding earlier this week, some farms in our region are experiencing additional loss and frustration in this already uncertain time. You likely already know that shopping at farmers markets is one of the best ways to support local farms. Preordering what you want can also add a level of stability for farmers right now. Many farms are offering a preorder option at markets (some require it). This can take a little more advance work on your part, but it’s worth it to know that you will get what you want—and that you are helping farmers plan as well. Here’s a guide to the process.

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Many fruits and vegetables are widely celebrated in the fall including apples, pumpkins and other winter squash. At area farmers tailgate markets, there are so many varieties of vegetables worthy of homage, yet unfortunately ignored by the mainstream autumnal attention. Sweet potatoes, arugula, sweet potato greens, and wild mushrooms, are just a few.

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Area farmers tailgate markets are full of innovative farmers cultivating unique varieties of fruits and veggies. During spring, greens dominate the produce selection, and farmers are excited to bring both familiar and out of the ordinary varieties for shoppers to discover and try. Read the rest of this entry »

Seasonality is inherently ephemeral — all local produce is only available for a limited time of the year. Certain produce embodies this more noticeably than others: asparagus is often cited as one of the go-to examples of the temporality of food — it is one of the first things ready to harvest in the spring, and its season only lasts for approximately six weeks. Less often referred to varieties have similarly fleeting availability, and there a few such foods present at area farmers tailgate markets this time of year, including chestnuts, sugar snap peas, arugula, grapes, broccoli, and cauliflower. Read the rest of this entry »

Winter squash are taking over area farmers tailgate markets. There are so many varieties to choose from! Read the rest of this entry »

Spring has arrived in the mountains! We’re welcoming spring back with outdoor farmers tailgate markets opening across the region!

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Winter tailgate markets abound with local farm products! What better way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day next week than to get some greens from your local farmer?

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These are the salad days of area farmers tailgate markets. They’re young, just beginning, bustling with excitement, and chock full of everything you need for a spring salad—from lettuce mixes to spinach to radishes!

Like your salad with a bit of a kick? Punch it up with watercress, spotted recently from Long Valley Eco-biotic Farm (Madison County Farmers & Artisans Market, West Asheville Tailgate Market, Weaverville Tailgate Market, Sundays on the Island) and Paper Crane Farm (Asheville City Market, West Asheville Tailgate Market ). Early spring is the prime flavor time for spicy watercress, which also goes well in sandwiches and sauces. Arugula can be found now, too, for a peppery punch. Harvest Table Farm recently brought theirs to the West Asheville Tailgate Market, along with the piquant green Mizuna.

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