Most North Texas farmers will be picking eggplants, summer squash, okra and basil right up to the first frost of the year, which typically arrives in mid-November. Right now at the Coppell Farmers Market, and across the state, cantaloupe and watermelon are still in the peak of their prime. Shoppers can also count on fresh shelled field peas and a variety of peppers. Sweet potato season is just a couple weeks away!
With nearly three months remaining in our summer season, it’s surprising to think that farmers in cooler climates will soon bring kale and butternut squash to their farmers markets. Perhaps we won’t be so far behind them this year as some North Texas farmers have reported flourishing growth of young fall crops following the recent cooler temperatures and unseasonal rains. We may see cool weather produce, like turnips, greens, and winter squash, as early as mid-September this year. There is even a promise of earlier and plumper fall tomatoes.
We’re excited to announce that the CFM will welcome a new vendor as soon as the first fall crops are ripe for picking, Alford Family Farm! This farm is located in Emory, TX and they specialize in growing vegetables sustainably, without the use of synthetic chemicals. At that time we’ll also be happy to welcome back D-Bar Farm, who has taken a late-summer hiatus. Until then, shoppers can plan to revisit their favorite summer vegetable recipes at least a few more times.