Jeannette Warnert, Public Info. A new handbook for farmers interested in capitalizing on a trend in America toward a diet that features an array of exotic and specialty produce is now available from the University of California Small Farm Program. It's nearly impossible to compete with large-scale agriculture on common crops, but farmers can carve a niche for themselves by catering to immigrants, health food stores, adventurous consumers and gourmet restaurants using this guide.
Examples are Belgian endive, bitter melon, radicchio, cilantro, daikon and tomatillo.
Unusual varieties of common crops, including melons, tomatoes, peppers and lettuce. For example, lettuces in numerous shapes, colors and sizes with names like Red Oakleaf, Brune d'Hiver and Black-seeded Simpson. Miniature or baby vegetables, including those that are fully ripe, miniature varieties and others that are picked before fully grown. High-quality produce, a specialty area based on extraordinary freshness, flavor and appearance. Each crop profile includes color photographs, basic varietal, marketing, cultural and harvesting information, plus seed sources and references for further study.