Treasures can be found at local farmer's market Summer bring us warm, sunny days, vacations and fresh, locally grown produce. The perfect place to find locally grown produce is the Gastonia Farmer s Market on Long Avenue. The market is open Saturdays and Tuesdays from daylight until the produce is sold and on Thursdays from noon until the produce is sold. In early June you can expect to find okra, cabbage, tomatoes, onions, squash, beets and cucumbers. When shopping for fresh produce, there are a few things to look for to make sure you get the best quality whether at the Farmers Market or the grocery store.
Cabbage Look for firm, hard heads which are heavy for the size.
Outer leaves should have good color without serious blemishes or too many wrapper leaves. Squash Select tender squash that are well developed and firm. The skin should be glossy. Avoid squash with signs of decay or those that are very large and overmature. Greens Look for fresh, young leaves with good color.