Earlier this month we put together some data and graphics representing the different types of produce that were available from our growers in 2011, and specifically when they were available. The following table is a breakdown of our 2011 availabilities, and is a pretty accurate representation of what is available locally in North Carolina. As you can see from the table, the North Carolina climate allows growers to offer a wide variety of crops, many of which are available for 1/3 to 1/2 of the year. Some crops, such as collards, kale, and sweet potatoes, are essentially available year-round. Other crops, such as Strawberries and Tomatoes, have greatly extended their growing seasons in recent years. This is largely due to demand by local consumers for fresh, vine-ripened, local tomatoes and strawberries, which has encouraged growers to experiment in extending their growing seasons.
For 2012 we hope to further expand this list and to further extend the seasons on many popular items. The warm winter thus far has been great for local agriculture, extending the season even further for late Fall and early Spring crops. This year we hope to extend availability on heirloom tomatoes (which had a rough season in 2011 due to heat and drought) and melons. We are also encouraging growers to experiment with crops that haven't traditionally been grown in NC. We hope to see more varieties of beans (Fava, burgundy, yellow), raddicchio, bibb lettuces, fingerling potatoes, and cauliflower.
Take a look at our 2011 availabilities below, and let us know what you would like to see more of in the future.
