Plant a Seed and Shop Local in Carlsbad this Spring

Spring is here at last. If you’re a gardener, your time to thrive is now. For gardeners in Southern California, planting usually begins in April. If you are able to get vegetables in the ground during this time, they will have the chance to take root before the summer heat sets in. Now that it’s mid-May, there is still time to jumpstart your garden with veggies, herbs and flowers. Drought is commonplace in our sunny state, so it’s important to become creative about how to water your plants. By deep watering, you can make sure that your veggies will grow healthy and strong. 

If you’re on the search for things you can plant before the heat sets in, some of the most popular and productive plants for springtime include warm-season vegetable seeds. These range from tomatoes and squash to eggplants, spinach, green beans, and onions. Warm-season herbs include mint, rosemary, basil, and oregano. May is also a fantastic time to plant root crops like beets, turnips, and carrots. You will also want to plant flowers in your garden to serve as pollinators. Summer annuals like petunias, marigolds, and sunflowers can be planted or seeded during the early summer months. 

The Southern California soil gives gardeners sustainable produce year-round. And whether you’re a planter or a gatherer, local produce is one of the gems that binds our community and supports our residents. Farmer’s Markets serve as a testament to the value of home grown goods. They offer a place for families and entrepreneurs to meet up and enjoy local foods and crafts. They also create local jobs, save resources, and promote shopping locally. Farmer’s markets facilitate personal connections between farmers and shoppers, and give farmers more direct access to money for their goods. Shoppers receive the freshest food in their area and get to enjoy the best of what’s grown in the region.  

Here are two markets in Carlsbad that can’t be missed:

State Street Farmer’s Market

The State Street Farmer’s Market is Carlsbad’s largest and most well-known open air market. It was created to encourage local farmers in their craft and to provide the community with a place to support the growth of local produce. 

The Farmer’s Market is open every Wednesday starting at 2:30 p.m. Fresh fruits, cheese, nuts, vegetables, fish, eggs, and honey are available year round. There are also a wide variety of food artisans with treats like kombucha, baked goods, and granola as well as hot food vendors with meals on-the-go. From gourmet grilled cheese to Thai, Indian/Pakistani, Filipino, and fresh ceviche – there is a plate for any palette. 

The State Street Farmer’s Market prides themselves on providing unique produce that can’t be found in chain grocery stores. They support certified growers and limit the amount of packaged foods. 

The market stays open until 7:00 p.m. to allow people the chance to visit after work. There is plenty of parking available throughout the Village, with public lots located on Roosevelt Street, State Street, and behind the Coaster. 

Carlsbad Ranch Market

While the State Street Farmer’s Market is the place to go for an authentic Farmer’s Market experience, the Carlsbad Ranch Market is a fresh take on the market experience. They are a local brick and mortar storefront with fresh and natural produce and groceries. They have a deli and also make their own pressed juices and smoothies. 

The Market is driven by old-fashioned service and takes pride in sourcing high quality local products. Their owner hand-picks produce from local vendors to ensure that there are fresh new choices every week. 

You can order online or visit in person on Paseo Del Norte across from Tip Top Meats.

There has never been a more important time to ‘think local’. As you’re planting your spring garden, visit either of these community markets to support local farmers and invest in your neighbors.