Have you found your local farmer’s market? Joined a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Farm or are thinking of joining one? You can find local resources in the USA easily (do my readers in Canada, Europe, South America and other countries/continents know of a comparable site?)

In the USA, it costs a tremendous amount of money to become certified as an organic farmer. Many farmers forgo formal certification although they use organic methods.

 Here are some great questions to ask when buying produce or considering a CSA:

1. Did you grow this product yourself or was it purchased from another farm? (this may help reveal how much they really know about the growing methods used)
2.  What are your growing methods?
3.  Do you have any recipes for this product?
4.  How long ago was this product picked?
5.  Is it ready to eat today? If not, when?
6.  What is the best way to store this?

Asking open-ended questions, like these, allows you to learn more information than simply asking yes or no questions. Get to know your farmers (and sellers). Making the experience personal makes it more fun for everyone. And ensures you get the produce you really want.