By Katherine Jones
For the Salisbury PostOur recent trend toward cooler temperatures is a sure sign that fall is really here. The aromas of pumpkin pie, baked apples, simmering greens, cornbread and baking sweet potatoes are among the many delights of the season that can be yours after a shopping trip to the Salisbury Farmers Market.
Unfortunately, fall also means that the activities for the summer Farmers Market will be winding down. The last day of operation for the summer market will be Oct. 29. That leaves only four shopping days remaining for you to take advantage of the many fruits and vegetables offered each week. There is still a large selection of peas, October beans, cabbage, squash, zucchini, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, onions and potatoes. Apples are at a peak and many varieties to choose from such as Fuji, Stayman Winesap, Granny Smith, Golden and Red Delicious.
This week at the market you will see greens of many kinds such as collards, turnip greens, tender greens, kale and mustard. I believe that most people consider greens a Southern comfort food, myself included. While Southern comfort foods have a reputation of having too much fat and sodium, the fact is that greens are jam-packed with nutrients. They provide an excellent source of the Vitamins K, A, C and E as well as calcium and dietary fiber. Greens in our area are harvested from September through December. Fresh greens can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days and can be frozen after cooking.
Another attraction at the market is the great selection of flowers and plants. There are also baked goods, crafts and home-grown meat.
Take advantage of the few remaining weeks. Remember that you will be able to use debit or credit cards, as well as food stamps and WIC and senior vouchers.
For more information, visit www.salisburyfarmersmarket.com. The Farmers Market is located in downtown Salisbury on the corner of South Main and Bank Streets. It is operating on the fall schedule, Saturday from 7 a.m. to noon.
Katherine Jones is a Master Gardener volunteer.