Advertisement

Not from the grocery store but from the Lapeer Farmers' Market, one of the many farmer's markets that will take place in and out of the county starting as soon as Saturday.

"I spend a lot of money this way, but it's worth it," said Berlinger, a Lapeer resident, who attempts to shop every Wednesday during Lapeer's bi-weekly event running from May 12-Oct. 27. "They have fresher fruits. I wouldn't buy raspberries at a grocery store but I would at the farmers' market."

Homegrown fruits and vegetables typically dominate the traditional farmer's market, although crafters and antique dealers also make appearances. But since crops need sufficient time to grow, plants and flowers are the popular items in the beginning months.

Almont's Farmers' Market will start for two weekends on May 19 and 26 to kick off the planting season. After taking off the month of June, the market gets back into full gear with foods on Saturdays from July through October.

Imlay City's Farmers' Market will start into the fruit and vegetable season June 7 on Thursdays through Oct. 25. To improve the event, it has been moved to the intersection of Third and Main streets. It was formerly in the parking lot of the Lamb-Steele building.

Not all foods will be readily available at the start of the farmer's market, especially in the early spring. Shoppers may see foods like asparagus, rhubarb, honey and eggs in May. June typically begins the onslaught of peas, lettuce, strawberries, green onions, radishes, spinach and more.

July can bring in fruits like blueberries and cherries, while apples, pumpkins and squash come alive August through October.

"Vegetables draw the most people in, and plants in the spring," said Denise Becker, market master for Lapeer's event. "I try to get all the vegetables I can down there."

Freshness is key when it comes to farmer's market foods and the organic kind can be popular among shoppers. The cost can range to up to a few dollars more than regular foods. A typical carton of a dozen eggs can go for a $1, while the same amount in the organic variety may go up to a couple dollars more. Vegetables typically don't experience any major price difference.

"I think people are willing to pay for that," Becker said. "They're paying for organic right now."

Special events and promotions will also highlight the area markets as the season goes on. To coincide with the Lapeer Celebrates Art festival June 2-3, the market will be open on Sunday as well. They will also have Flower Day on June 9, Farm Day on June 23, and a cancer benefit on July 14 which will include a sports memorabilia show.

In case the young ones get bored, there will be children's activities like a bubble blowing station in Almont. In Imlay City, some of the vendors are certified for Project Fresh.

"The MSU Extension distributes coupons for seniors at a low to moderate income to come and purchase fresh produce from a local farmer," said Brad Barrett, Imlay City Downtown Development Authority Director.

The amount of vendors varies from town to town and during the time of the season. Imlay City and Almont both average around six a week.

"It varies on what is happening," said Teemie Eschenburg, who sells perennials and herbs in Almont. "Our main stay is like six, but it grows and shrinks."

Being much larger, Lapeer starts out with at least 25, mostly in planting and antiques. Vendors are still being sought by market masters.

"We're definitely encouraging people to approach the farmer's market to sell," said Jill Hough, market master for Almont. "It's not intimidating to sell. You don't have to be a professional gardener."

All organizers agree that buying local benefits the community greatly. With gas prices well over $3 a gallon and unlikely to decrease soon, Becker sees big business in this year's market.

"With gas prices as high as they are, everybody will be thinking of going to the market to buy stuff," Becker said.

"It's a great opportunity to keep the local dollar local," Barrett adds. "You are supporting someone local."

Jeff Hoard can be reached at (810) 664-0811, Ext. 8127 or jeff.hoard@lapeergroup.com.