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Shop and Mingle at Hartford Regional Farmers Market

KATHLEEN MEGAN

May 09, 2009

If you want the freshest and best choice in springtime greenery, you have to get up when the farmers do.

That's what hundreds of people do each weekend, converging on the Hartford Regional Market to buy trees, shrubs, perennials and bedding plants directly from Connecticut farmers.

The market runs Friday through Sunday mornings from 5 to 9. The earlier you get there, the better, according to Mark Zotti, a marketing representative for the Department of Agriculture.

"The farmers normally start showing up just after 4 in the morning," says Zotti. "Get there before 5 to make sure you get a good parking space."

It's a no-frills shopping experience, Zotti says, and recommends that customers bring a wagon or a cart to tote plants and shrubs. He also suggests a flashlight for the early-dawn hours.

The market is very popular and has been around for a long time, with most customers buying in bulk.

"You are dealing right with the farmers, which is a nice thing," Zotti says.

As the season moves into summer, Zotti says, the crowds let up a bit and local produce will arrive. Other Connecticut-grown products such as cut flowers, honey and maple syrup also will be available. The market is at 101 Reserve Road in Hartford, near Brainard Airport.