"Cosmetically challenged" heirloom tomato at $1.5/lb
The best way to save on produce, IMO, is to patronize the local farmers market (or grow your own 
). I felt so thankful every time we visit the Sacramento Farmers Market. The hustle and bustle, sights and sounds really jazz me up. Flowers, children, old and young, everyone busy and happy. The best thing? Reasonably priced produce. No gimmicks, just simple, fresh produce.
Oh and cheap eggs, local honey, chatting with growers, and more.
Cute carnivorous plants
'Tis season for flowers
It is not to say that the prices at the farmers market are high (in fact they’re usually cheaper than the grocery stores), but there are still ways to save if you’re on a tight budget. I would not suggest haggling for prices, though, the farmers have worked hard enough and they deserved to be paid accordingly.
1. Look for Imperfections: E.g. these ohh-so-yummy (samples are handed out) cosmetically challenged organic heirloom tomato (with small bruises) are only $1.5/lb. I’d happily paid $3 (they’re REALLY expensive at the grocery store) but at $1.5 a pound it’s a steal.
2. Compare Prices and Qualities. Generally you’d expect to pay more for organic produce, but there are exceptions, you just have to look around the market. What I like about the Sacramento Farmers Market is the healthy competition. There is a price point for every product (organic vs. non-organic, cosmetically challenged vs. good looks, sweet vs. tart) and everyone with all kinds of budget can find what they need.
3. Get there Early or Late. Early for the best selection of discounted “cosmetically challenged” produce, late for closing price slash.
Appreciate the farmers and vendors. It is because of them that we have such bounty of produce. So thank them and patronize them!
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