Last month there were bunnies at the Farmers’ Market and this month the children will be dreaming that the bunny will sneak into their homes and leave colored eggs and chocolate candies. Meanwhile the adults are looking forward to the delicious meals with fresh spring vegetables, flowers on the table and family all around. The gifts, the food, the table decorations, and the good cheer can all be found at this Saturday’s Farmers’ Market. In fact, I dare you to enter and not leave with something good to eat!
Both kids and the adults can have fun making Seed Planting Strips as a free activity at the market. They assure straight lines and evenly spaced veggies that can be planted in the garden in a snap. Helpers and materials will be on hand to show you how to make the strips on site or learn to do it and finish at home. For the kids seeds will be available for the strips and the adults can bring some of their own or pick some out at the seed swap being held by the Marshfield Agricultural Commission (AgCom) throughout the market.
The AgCom’s seed swap was a big hit three years ago when it was last held. Hundreds of packets of seeds have been donated by the commission members assuring that everyone can participate. If you have some of your own seeds you can bring them packaged and labeled and swap each one for another packet of something different. Alternatively, you can purchase seed packets at the swap for a small donation to the commission. There is bound to be something you want to try amongst the many packages of flowers, herb and vegetable varieties. Watching and helping things grow can be very inspiring and brings joy to children and adults alike. Commission members will be on hand to help with questions about seeds, plant varieties, gardening, and will have information about the Mounces Meadow Community Gardens in case you don’t have a space of your own for gardening. The group supports the Right-to-Farm by-law in Marshfield and their passion for growing things is evident in the enthusiasm and willingness to share information.
So, while we are out of bunnies to adopt at this market, there are lots of chocolate turtles, Easter themed choco-pops, eggs, decorations, fresh greens to eat and pussy willows for the table. You can even order a fresh or smoked ham from Brown Boar Farm, whose owner lives in Marshfield and bring home some lovely breads, muffins, or donuts from one of the bakers. All are sure to please the family at the breakfast or dinner table.
The Market is open this Saturday 10 am – 2pm, and again May 17th. Located at the Fairgrounds on route 3A (140 Main St.) with free parking/admission/activities. Lots of fresh local foods, produce, artisan breads, fish, cheese, crafts, and so much more are available. Go to www.MarshfieldFair.org/fm.htm or call 781-635-0889 for more information. @MarshfieldFM follows them on Twitter, and “Fans of the Marshfield Farmers Market” is the Facebook page.
