Spring Means Seedings, Sprouts and Sustainability at Local Farms

To every thing there is a season—and we are in the season of planting.

Despite the frost warnings this week, May is the time when many plants take root. And not far behind are the early harvests.

There are a number of local farms that provide a variety of seedings and sprouts, produce and other products as the growing season progresses. Some are urban farms, some out in the country. (Check out the video at right of Garden Dreams Urban Farm in Wilkinsburg.)

According to the LocalHarvest.org website, most produce in the U.S. is picked four to seven days before being placed on supermarket shelves, and is shipped for an average of 1,500 miles before being sold.

Fortunately, in the x Patch area, there are a number of farms in the region where consumers can obtain just-picked fruits and vegetables—or find seedlings to grow their own gardens at home.

These local markets provide produce either at their own markets, through farmers markets or through CSA (community-sustainable agriculture) subscriptions:

• Garden Dreams Urban Farm and Nursery, Wilkinsburg: heirloom tomatoes, ethnic peppers (hot and sweet), specialty eggplants, herbs, greens and more, including organic gardening supplies.

• East End Food Co-op, Point Breeze: Organic and natural produce.

• Daugherty's Orchards, Murrysville: Fresh fruits, homegrown vegetables, annual flowers and herbs, homemade pies, jellies and apple cider.

• Braddock Farms, Braddock: Wide variety of vegetables and herbs.

Did we miss any local farms? Tell us in the comments box below.