[ April 17, 2023 ] What a fine, beautiful day for the Jasper Farmers Market, just one tent short of a new vendor count record! The parking lot was full of people, vendors, customers, and the pups. Long hair, short hair, wagging tails, wagging tongues... are we talking dogs or people? Guess it applies however you want to take it.

It certainly is good to see so many familiar faces, plus, many new vendors. Tony brought the bread, Vivian brought the sorbet, Sgt. Peppers can hook you up with some heat for your meat! Anne brought the ever so cute succulents for the indoor or porch garden.

April 15th, the familiar Tax Day, indicates the last, average date for frost! Emphasize 'average', because on occasion we get a surprise frost a little later. Many people are excited to get those tomatoes in the ground, but be aware the ground temperature isn't ideal for starting seedlings. Tomatoes like to start with warm toe-ies!

Yet, to see the market full of plant and veggie vendors is exciting. You can certainly get your pick of tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and herbs. And don't forget the eggs. We've got some regular contributors to that fridge staple.

Be on the lookout for the microgreens, meats, and Miss Piggy's Pork Rinds. Snacks, breakfast, lunch, suppers, and dinner's are covered here at the market. The desserts are amazing!

Kebra brought the Red Bean Harvest crafted hot coffee for which many are grateful. Remember this is a hometown crafted coffee business.

It's still important to support the local businesses by shopping locally and that includes the Jasper Farmers Market sponsored by the Pickens County Master Gardeners. Which by the way will be having their plant tent up next Saturday, April 22nd, if you want to get some gardening info and advice from the MG's. Plus, for a donation you can pick up a new-to-you plant.

The Master Gardeners raise funds for their operations and to help send 4-H kids to camp! Saturday, May 6th will be the MG's big annual plant sale starting at 8 am.

Also next Saturday, in celebration of Earth Day, Pickens County Extension Agent Justin Fellenbaum will be passing out free packets of wildflower seeds!

So come on down, or up, or across town to the Jasper Farmers Market, held at Lee Newton Park across from the Veteran's Memorial. Saturdays beginning at 7:30 am until noon. We look forward to seeing you find that special decor or gift. You may get that special cake or salad fixin's for dinner. You certainly can find many unusual, beautiful, and/or special items to bring a smile to your face!

For more information, like the Facebook page (Jasper Farmers Market) or call the Pickens Co. Extension Office at 706-253-8840.