You don’t have to live on a farm or a sprawling estate to have a garden or enjoy fresh locally grown produce. Urban gardening is ‘a thing’ and small gardens can grow a lot of food. There are also plenty of options for those of us who don’t have a green thumb by checking out one of Charlotte’s Farmer’s Markets.
Ok first for those of you who want to give gardening a try. Small gardens are a great option for those with limited yard space, limited time, and limited mobility.
Here are a few easy to grow options.
Basil
The tiny leaves not only smell good but are versatile in so many dishes. It grows good in planters or window boxes.
Cherry Tomatoes
All you need is a big pot on a back deck and BAM you’ve got a summer snack whenever you want it.
Chard
Unlike some plants that sprawl out, chard grows fairly upright so it’s good in tight spaces. Cutting off leaves actually encourages more growth, kind of an eat and repeat cycle.
Pole Beans
Vertical plants make great use of limited space. Pole beans love to climb a trellis.
You know I love repurposing different things. Try it in for your garden. I found some cool ideas after my own heart here.
Now if gardening doesn’t interest you but knowing where your food comes from does, then you’ve got several Farmer’s Markets to choose from that can surely supply what you need.
They are peppered throughout the city, each with their own vibe.
Cotswold Farmer’s Market
309 South Sharon Amity Road
May through October Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Along with the expected produce you can get breads, and seasonal fruits. The market also showcases local musicians, and monthly activities for children and adults.
Plaza Midwood Farmer’s Market
The market screens all the vendors to insure only the finest, freshest products are offered at the Elizabeth Avenue market. Their Facebook page boasts “Only those products produced by the local vendors, caught by the local Fisherman, harvested by local beekeepers or created by the local chefs will be offered. All our vendors are small producers using Organic and “Green” methods producing the finest of quality.
Atherton Mill and Market
This is one of the few Farmer’s Markets that is INDOORS.
2000-2140 South Boulevard
Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
You’ll run into lots of folks from the South End neighborhood. It features small local farms and artisans, offering produce, meat, seafood, dairy products, eggs, and more. You can see all the vendors here.
Kings Drive Farmers Market
Open April – December
This is one of the city’s oldest Farmer’s Markets. It’s family owned and operated since 1941.
Bon Apetite’
