A NOTE TO OUR READERS:
"Take the Harvest Home" is from the October 2002 issue of Southern Living. Because prices, dates, and other specifics are subject to change, please check all information to make sure it's still current before making your travel plans.
Fall brings bumper crops of fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers to local
farmers markets. The season is ripe for just-picked produce from a grower near
you. What's more, your family might have as much fun here as at an amusement
park. Okay, maybe not, but there are no lines, no waiting, and no hefty
admission fees. Plus it's much healthier and more educational, right? Here are
some of our favorites.
State Farmers Market, Raleigh
The capital city has a capital farmers
market too. Huge open-air sheds hold a cornucopia of fruits, vegetables,
flowers, plants, imported items, and flea market finds. Handmade signs show
price per pound, basket, or bushel, often with a peck of commentary. One sign reads: " 'Maters' taste like they did when you were a child growing up [with] your parents!!!" Another announces: " 'Cut Collards.' They may be better
after FROST, but delicious NOW."
Free samples abound too. Not sure if those cherry tomatoes will be sweet
enough in your salad? Well, just pop one in your mouth--no charge--and decide.
This method is impractical with pumpkins, but you get the picture.
Barter with these ol' boys--you might get a discount if you buy in quantity
or bat your eyelids. Location: south of downtown, off I-440 and Lake
Wheeler Road (look for signs on the interstate). Hours: 5 a.m.-6 p.m.
Monday-Saturday year-round; noon-6 p.m. Sunday. Call (919) 733-7417 for more
information.
