As we come to the beginning of the local growing season, thoughts of fresh local food comes to mind. However, in the current economic situation, I often get asked about the ability to eat local on a budget. If you have been to a farmers market, you know that local produce is not always the most economical. There are many benefits for why you should eat local and that the farmers really do need to make money on what they grow, but when it comes down to paying more for local food, it can be very difficult. Throughout the past year, I have struggled with this many times. After all, I practice what I teach. I shop on a budget.

However, in the past year I vowed to find a way to buy local on a budget. Therefore, I shop around for good deals. In my searching, I found that there are a few smaller grocery stores in the area that stock locally grown products on a regular basis for great prices. Also, things that farmers grow in abundance and that are easy to grow are good buys at the farmers markets. These might include lettuce, spinach, zucchini, potatoes, and onions. You might also be able to get great prices if you buy directly from the farm. If the farmer doesn't have to travel or pay for vendor space, they can sell products at better prices because they don't have to recoup those costs.

Lastly, one of the most economical ways to eat local is to grow your own. Food can be grown in backyards or in containers for little cost. Check out Extension's Illinois Vegetable Garden Guide and Making Herb and Vegetable Container Gardens to learn more about how you can plant your own vegetables. If planted correctly, you could have vegetables in as little as a few weeks. This year I will be planting my first vegetable garden. I will let you know how it goes.

Good buys on local food are out there. Hopefully, if you can continue to support the local farmers whatever way works for your own budget, local foods will continue to be more common and affordable.