I made mention of the Venice farmers market on Sunday, but it’s worthy of a full post.  The market runs Saturday mornings from 8-12 in the Centennial Park parking lot on Venice Avenue.  There’s produce, flowers, crafts, coffee, and donuts.  But what impressed me the most were the plants. 

Blooming Groves Nursery brings in racks of vegetables, herbs, perennials, annuals, and succulents.  They are not certified organic but about 90% of their seeds are organic.  And instead of pesticides, they use a soap solution made up of one tablespoon Murphy’s Oil Soap (or dish soap), one tablespoon mouthwash, and one quart water.  I’m of the do the best you can mindset, so I’ll go back and buy from them-organic or not.  The plants look healthier and hardier than what you’ll find at Home Depot or Walmart, and the prices are comparable.  A gallon tomato plant was priced at four dollars.  Here’s a look at their succulent selection.

If you’re looking for 100% organic plants and produce, then shop the Downtown Sarasota farmers market on Saturdays (look for Worden Farm and Nature’s Partner) or the Siesta Key farmers market on Sundays (look for Jessica’s Organic Farm).  If you’re happy with a good local selection, this is a nice market.  Among the local produce were tomatoes, potatoes, radishes, strawberries, and of course; there’s always plenty of citrus…

Local honey is another mainstay at Florida farmers markets.  Walker Farms brings their honey from North Fort Meyers (on Bee Charmer Lane).  I only saw wild flower and saw palmetto varieties at the market, but online they sell orange blossom and black mangrove.  I always use honey in things.  Is there a huge flavor difference between varieties?  If there are any honey lovers out there, I’d love to hear your thoughts.  

Walker was also selling a line of handmade jellies and preserves from Paradise Gardens on Pine Island, where their black mangrove honey originates.  There were basics – strawberry preserves and mango chutney – and there were Florida delicacies - key lime jelly and grapefruit marmalade.  It was a great selection at this stand and throughout the market.  Lettuce Share loves the Venice Farmers Market!