Time to Expand Local Food Production In Phoenix Area

WCSL · Joined: 07 Oct 2007 Posts: 3

I was talking with one of my friends in the Glendale area. We feel that it's time to get people interested in growing their own food in their neighborhoods. In the past 5 years, interest has come and then waned for public gardens which support the very basic idea of self-sufficiency. But with simple projects like Earth Boxes, the Phoenix area can invigorate interest once again in the amazing growing climate of the Southwest and how that can increase local food supply.

I'd like to know what you think of this idea, and I am prepared to put a lot of encouragement into this. It's time for Phoenix to make a go of it.

Thanks,
Douglas
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGvC8p3V-6Q

phoenixtropicals · Posted: Mon Oct 08, 2007 7:13 pm Post subject:

I'd like to see a better farmers market. Is there a larger Phoenix one in which anyone can participate? I went to one in Mesa many years ago but it was somewhat disappointing. There are certainly some times of the year that I could unload some citrus, especially lemons.

phoenixtropicals · Posted: Mon Oct 08, 2007 7:16 pm Post subject: Farmers Market

Actually. Here is a site that has info. I haven't had time to read through it yet, but it looks promising.

http://www.arizonafarmersmarkets.com/

phoenixtropicals · Posted: Mon Oct 08, 2007 7:21 pm Post subject:

Errr... Actually, it looks like being a vendor there is a hassle. Liability insurance, 50 dollar fee, blah, blah blah. How could this be so complicated? Does it actually have to be so complicated. What about just bringing your fruit and veggies and setting up a table to sell them. Everyone that buys signs a waver to absolve the vendors of liability or something like that.

WCSL · Joined: 07 Oct 2007 Posts: 3

i totally agree that farmers markets should be free to vendors. let's keep looking for a new direction in liberalizing local food production. i'll keep working to rekindle interest in neighborhoods, and the local extension office is in the process of getting more people involved in small farming at the phoenix city limits. this is a good start, it can only get better.

darkcoolboo · Joined: 17 Nov 2014 Posts: 129

Most cold season veggies, like kale, actaully prefer a light frost. They say it helps sweeten up the leaves. Our long summer growing season is more than enough for veggies. ThIngs like peppers, okra, eggplant, beans and tomatoes are fun. If you are ever wonder if frost is a problem - it's atually good. Ever wonder how people up north can grow tomatoes?