Produce at farmer's markets this time of year

[Anonymous]

I went to the farmer's market last weekend for the first time since fall and was surprised to see lots of produce - apples, beets, sweet potatoes, etc. Do the farmers in this area really grow this stuff in winter? Do they use greenhouses? Or are things like the apples stored over the winter? I'm really curious. The sweet potatoes were delish, btw.

[Anonymous]

I work with a farmer selling winter produce and yes most the farmers in this area are really quite efficient at winter time products.
Most farmers do have greenhouses or high tunnels - some farmers heat their houses others do not. It's really amazing to see what variety can be grown during the winter if it is just protected from the chilly winds. My favorite are winter time carrots and greens - so sweet! The plants have to push tons of sugar into their leaves/roots to make it through the cold...So good. And many of the root crops and apples are stored.
But again, a lot depends on the farmer you are buying from. Ask them, I'm sure they would be willing to share with you how they manage to farm through the winter.

[Anonymous]

as pp mentioned, all the things you mention keep really well if stored properly. the apples and potatoes are likely from a fall harvest.