Across the east end of the Valley, from Mt. Garfield Fruit & Vegetable just east of Clifton to Kokopelli Farms stand west of Palisade, all Valley farms are open for business.
Few fruits are available, but the garden bounty is ready. Are you?
It is decision time. Where is the freshest, and the best produce available in the Valley?
Colorado Farm Fresh Directory published by the Colorado Department of Agriculture lists over 200 farms, roadside stands, and Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) programs, plus more information about the entire State. Pick up a copy at any farmers’ market, fruit stand or orchard. It’s a good reference about the 30 Mesa County businesses in the booklet, but why not discover all 200 of our local growers for your own tastes.
Palisade Sunday Farmer’s Market is open on 3rd and Main Streets every Sunday, June 15 through Sept. 21 from 10 a.m. to 1 pm with ever-changing booths and products to offer all shoppers.
Mt. Garfield Fruit and Vegetable Stand, has been open since the last week of May. “My regular customers know my dates and hours. They expect me to be here, so I am,” said owner Thelma Hays about opening her stand for the 48th year. The stand is located at 3371 Highway 6.
Teller Arms Farmers Market at 1100 Pitkin Ave. in Grand Junction is filled with Palisade produce and fruit as varieties come into season, every Wednesday and Saturday for the summer. Look for Sowell Farms, Carol Z’s, Herman’s, Pear Blossom, and later this season Mosher-Talley Orchard from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. as well as at other farmers’ markets around the county and around the state.
Others are coming on strong later later in the month of June, Clark Family Orchards, Kokopelli Farm and U-Pick farms, like the Fruit Basket opened June 21, with Green Acres, C & R Farms and Just Peachy opening in July.
These are a few open all year-round: Alida’s and Herman’s, but they too are gearing up for the early season of fresh vegetables and cherries are in season now.
All farmers will be adding the summer fruit and other delightful home-grown foods as they ripen.
So, buy local—Palisade local—come out and roam Orchard Mesa, East Orchard Mesa and Palisade to discover and taste the goodness of the Valley.
If a “favorite local grower, farm, orchard or winery,” tickles your tastebuds, send a message or even a photograph to www.peachtownnews.com.
Keep us informed, and we will be happy to tell everyone about ALL the great people, places, and products of our area.
