Fresh fruit and vegetables are incredibly delicious! In the summertime, farmers’ markets in Georgia will be bustling with folks eager for fresh produce. Deciding what to grow is a mix of art, science, and a lot of preplanning.
Having a good lineup of seasonal produce to sell at farmers’ markets this summer will be the difference between a sold-out stand and hauling boxes back to the farm.
The Undisputed Champions: Tomatoes and Peaches
You can’t have a Georgia summer without tomatoes and peaches. Customers will arrive expecting to find juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes, from big heirlooms to sweet little cherries. Having a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes always draws a crowd. Keep in mind that humidity can be tough on tomatoes, so be sure to include produce packaging based on the season to keep the tomatoes fresh.
And then there are the peaches. People will line up for a good peach, the kind that requires you to lean over the sink to eat it. Offering both yellow and white varieties, and maybe even some early-season donut peaches, ensures you have something for every preference. Customers will be vying for these classics.
The Reliable Crowd-Pleasers: Squash, Zucchini, and Cucumbers
Summer squash and zucchini are the workhorses of the garden. While they might not have the same star power as a perfect peach, they are staples that shoppers consistently look for. Not to mention, they grow fast!
Cucumbers are right there with squash and zucchini. From crisp slicing varieties for salads to smaller pickling types, they are a versatile choice. Cucumbers are easy to grow in abundance, so they’ll provide you with a steady stream of product and revenue throughout the market season.
The Surprise Hits: Peppers and Berries
Don’t underestimate the power of a good pepper. Sweet bell peppers in a rainbow of colors are always a hit, but adding some heat is a smart move. Jalapeños, serranos, and even some hotter varieties like habaneros appeal to the adventurous cooks who frequent farmers’ markets.
Blackberries and blueberries are like little jewels. They command a higher price but are worth the effort. Customers love the experience of getting truly fresh berries, something the grocery store just can’t replicate. They are a special treat that will set your stand apart.
Have a Prosperous Summer Market
Focusing on a smart mix of popular staples and unique offerings is a winning formula. Tomatoes and peaches bring them in, squash and cucumbers fill their bags, and a surprising selection of peppers and berries keeps them coming back.
Planning your crops around these top picks will help you capitalize on market traffic. Think about what customers are looking for and which seasonal crops are the best for summer farmers’ markets. With a little forethought, you’ll have a successful season!
