Wisconsin is known for its terrific dairy industry, but did you know that Wisconsin is also a leader in production of several kinds of produce?  Spring is the time when the days start getting longer, the temperatures start rising and our taste for fresh, locally grown produce grows strong. Thankfully, spring is also the time when vegetables start coming into season, making it easier to find fresh, locally-grown produce.

Early spring produce favorites of Wisconsin include asparagus, spinach, rhubarb, and kohlrabi. Two later spring vegetables of importance to Wisconsin are green peas and cabbage.  Both of these vegetables ripen during mid-to late-June.  Wisconsin ranks first in the nation for the production of cabbage for sauerkraut, a great addition to a summer bratwurst and an indicator of Wisconsin’s German heritage.  Cabbage is high in beta-carotene, vitamin C, and fiber.  Wisconsin ranks third in the nation for the production of green peas for processing.  Peas are low in fat and high in plant protein.

All of these delicious and nutritious vegetables can be found among Wisconsin’s abundance of Farmers Markets. 

April and May are the beginning of the Farmers’ market season in Wisconsin.  Farmers’ markets are an important part of many local communities, and they provide additional opportunities for producers of agricultural and food products to reach new consumers.  Farmers’ markets come in all sizes and happen in all seasons.  People most often think of farmers’ markets as being outside, but several farmers’ markets are year-round and move indoors when the weather is cold. 

There are many reasons to get out and explore your local farmers’ market.  SavorWisconsin.com makes it easy to find the market nearest you.  Click here to search the farmers’ market directory.
SavorWisconsin.com is also a great resource for finding Wisconsin local produce.  Click here to search for Wisconsin vegetables.