How to Save Money at a Farmers' Market

Ways to Buy Discount Produce at Outdoor Fruit and Vegetable Stands

Apr 8, 2009

Eating nutritiously and saving money...Two important goals for consumers. Shoppers can do both if they learn how to navigate a Farmers' Market.

Sure, it might be a little inconvenient to go to a farmers’ market. One can’t buy all the week's groceries there. So that means two trips- one to the supermarket and one to the outdoor produce market. But that extra time in the car is worth it, because an excursion to a farmers’ market is just that; an excursion; one that visitors savor, and actually look forward to every week.

How to Save Money and Buy the Freshest Produce at a Farmers’ Market

Most of the time, shoppers actually meet the farmer who is selling his/her produce. There are no middlemen. The person who grows it actually sells it! So, whether one is looking for the perfect squash for a casserole, or tasty bell peppers to go along with a picnic lunch, consumers can find the freshest products and some of the lowest prices at an outdoor market. Why? Transportation costs are lower when the crop is grown locally. That also cuts down on the end price. And those whoe are concerned about growing techniques can usually get the answers right there. Unlike supermarkets and warehouse clubs, where some produce may come from as far away as South America, consumers can also feel good that they're supporting their own local economy.

Scan grocery store sales flyers before heading to the farmers’ market. Even bring a copy along. And if one sees a price that is higher than the supermarket, simply ask the vendor to lower it. Since shoppers deal with only one person, not a long list of supervisors and managers, this is easy to do. Negotiating may not always be successful, but it’s definitely worth a try.

Ask for Tips on Growing Vegetables at HomeIf there is one thing about farmers, it is that they like to talk! So if gardeners want to save money by growing their own, these are the people to ask. They may have some special growing tips they are willing to share.

If consumers don’t see a quantity discount, they can ask for one! Say, a shopper finds a great deal on blackberries. He/she can take some home, make a bunch of pies, and freeze them. Or learn how to can. This age-old hobby is making a comeback in these economic crunch times.

Above all, bring the family and make shopping at the farmers’ market a Saturday morning event. People soon recognize the same faces, become part of the community, and best of all, save a bunch of money in the process.

The copyright of the article How to Save Money at a Farmers' Market in Consumer Education is owned by L. Marie Dubuque. Permission to republish How to Save Money at a Farmers' Market in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Apr 21, 2009 6:55 AM

Guest :

I'm curious, have you ever tried the tactic of bringing in a store flyer? Seems like the equivalent of bringing a Marshalls ad into Brooks Brothers and asking for a price match. I mean, they're both button down shirts after all!

Apr 21, 2009 7:00 PM

Guest :

You might as well say that you want the same price for their fresh picked produce as the wilted grocery store produce. It is kind of insulting. Farmers work very hard to provide the best possible produce for their customers. If you want cheap produce then buy it. After all you get what you pay for. Doesn't that make sense?