September 16, 2006

In the coming weeks, we will spotlight several vendors to let you know what’s growing fresh and any news they want to share with shoppers. Watch this spot next week for more news.

Dan at D & S Farm says that fresh picked apples are continuing and he’ll have the first pressing of cider available at this week’s market.

Jams, jellies, syrups and vinegars are currently for sale. Dan has more than 20 varieties of jams including berry, peach, hot pepper and red currant. The vinegars are berry infused and are available in blackberry and raspberry flavors. Holidays are approaching and these all make great holiday and hospitality gifts. Dan will have holiday order forms available at his booth soon.

Mark at Toigo Orchards says that they are starting to rotate out of summer crops now. Starting this Saturday, he will have 17 varieties of apples, 3 varieties of Asian pears and 4 varieties of European or traditional pears available for sale.

Fresh pressed cider will be available at next week’s market. Also, look for fresh summer canned items, and jams, sauces and fruit spreads.

James at Twin Springs Fruit Farm tells me that Magness pears will be available at next week’s market. The Magness variety was developed locally at the USDA research facility at Beltsville, MD and has a sweet, buttery and melt in the mouth quality. He also has 10 varieties of apples and fresh pressed and pasteurized cider available for sale.

A variety of greenhouse produce will be available through late fall. Look for delicious fresh greenhouse grown tomatoes, cucumbers and arugula.

Interested in volunteering to support your local farmers and producers? To volunteer, e-mail Monica Lear at lear@vt.edu