Articles
Explore the flavors, faces, and stories that make the Blacksburg Farmers Market special. From behind-the-scenes vendor stories and seasonal recipes to helpful tips and local food features, our collection of blog posts, videos, and how-to’s is here to inform and inspire. Whether you're a Market regular or a curious newcomer, there’s something here for everyone.
Here in these Appalachian mountains, farmers are presented with unique challenges—and opportunities—at every step.
For Gwynn Hamilton and Bert Webster, their days are spent on steps: 39 terraces cut into clay earth where their flower farm resides near Newport, Virginia.
Based in Floyd, Riverstone’s operation is located in a breathtaking valley, bordered by a gravel road, woodlands, and the Little River. As you arrive, you’ll find a well-stocked farmstand, hiking trails, and a farming operation that just feels productive.
Founded in 2003, Weathertop Farm has roots—literally. Cedric Shannon, Weathertop’s owner, is serious about soil, pastured land, and the animals that make it all possible.
Tom Williamson is a farmer, through and through. He’s been farming his whole life, though it’s important to note that we’re not calling him old! A young, smiling face on his cattle operation, Tom is an expert of his trade.
Ben Harder of Den Hill Permaculture might as well be called the mad scientist of our market. Founded in 2012, Den Hill is a fixture of the market and focused mainly on a truly exciting offering: mushrooms!
“Kat The Farmer”, which is her brand and how many people know her, is a salad-centric grower. This means microgreens, culinary herbs, edible flowers, and all sorts of unique offerings that truly elevate our market’s offerings.
Levering Orchard clings timelessly to its mountainside home. Driving in, you start descending on switchbacked pavement, eventually find gravel, go a little further, and only then you’ll know that you’ve arrived.
Rolling down the gravel road into Crooked Porch Farm, you can feel the energy. Standing proud at the head of the valley, you’ll find their farmstand, complete with a vegetable mural and beautiful colors. The whole place just feels alive.
Recipes
You won’t be able to stop eating this light, refreshing summertime snack. Super easy! The best part is that you can get the cucumbers, dill, and tomatoes from produce vendors at the market!
The peaches are available at the market! Makes two big casserole dishes or pie pans but can be easily halved. I’ve made this with cherries too, great!
This tomato tart is just about as easy as it gets—but it looks impressive and, most importantly, tastes delicious!