Markets, Memories and Mississippi Tomatoes

Visiting Saturday morning farmers markets is one of my favorite things to do. Last weekend, I had the double pleasure of visiting two markets in one day. The first stop was the Hitching Post Farmers Market in Columbus, Mississippi — a place that's especially dear to my heart. I grew up on a farm in nearby Noxubee County, and many of the families selling there are familiar faces. One of my favorite finds was a bag of freshly picked okra, sold by a high school physics teacher who also grows vegetables. What an interesting combination of skills!

Next, I made my way to the Starkville Farmers Market, just outside the Mississippi State University campus. As a proud MSU alum, this market always brings back memories. I did research work in the tomato houses during my student days, so chatting with an ardent tomato grower was a real treat. For those of you growing your own, he recommends Carbon and 2522 as the most heat-resistant varieties with excellent flavor and yield. I grow my own tomatoes, too, but it's been a tough summer — this heat has taken its toll. Still, I left the market with a few beautiful tomatoes and a lot of great information.

Whether you're shopping for produce, gathering growing tips or just soaking up the community spirit, I encourage everyone to support a local farmers market — for the food and the facts!