crucial investments and plan crop rotations based on tangible demand — a small bit of certainty in a profession defined by shifting winds and weather .
What ’ s in it for you , the eater ? Before I joined a CSA , I would have extolled the community connection and fresh food as the obvious reasons to join . Multiple seasons in , there are additional hidden benefits that have us signing up season after season .
Grown-ups find value in “ knowing their farmer ” but for kids this relationship is a game changer . New vegetables seem more acceptable when “ our farmer grew them .” Some CSAs have member days where you can visit the farm and see the operation up close . Some have opportunities to swap recipes with other members . Don ’ t know what to do with brussels sprouts ? Just ask . If healthier eating is a goal , a CSA can serve as a commitment to cooking more and eating more vegetables — automated weekly throughout the season .
A CSA grounds you in the seasons . Strawberries in the grocery store year-round are not noteworthy ( in presence or taste ). The first week of strawberries from your farmer despite a late frost is cause for celebration . The shared risk and shared reward of your partnership is sweet — never watery . Looking at you , winter tomatoes .
There are several misconceptions about CSAs , with cost being a common concern . In reality , CSAs provide high-quality , sustainably raised produce at a reasonable price compared to grocery stores . Typically ranging between $ 15-20 per week for a full box of 6-8 items , opting for a CSA ensures you receive more and better-quality produce for your investment .
CSAs are a subscription to a virtuous cycle — your food dollar stays close to home to directly help a farm thrive , you reap the benefits of the resulting harvest , yielding better health outcomes and possibly new kitchen skills . This could be the beginning of a beautiful relationship . So , one question remains : who ’ s your farmer ? We ’ ve gathered local CSA listings here for you to find the perfect match .
Still on the fence ? Scan this QR code to take our quiz “ Is a CSA for me ?”
n Common ROOT Farm Derwood , MD Local . Fresh . Certified Organic . Common Root Farm near Rockville and Olney is offering a diversified vegetable CSA . We grow the best tasting and most nutritious vegetables using organic and regenerative practices . Feed yourself and your family the best ! We offer choice and flexibility with on farm pickup and home delivery . Visit our website for more details .
Ryan Kalivretenos www . commonrootfarm . com ( 301 ) 639-8316
n giovanni ’ s Farm Dickerson , MD Giovanni ’ s Farm grows Certified Organic and Certified Real Organic salad vegetables , produce , and herbs . Our free choice CSA membership is open to families of all sizes
CSA Farms
on a rolling basis . Pick up from the Farm in Dickerson ( near Poolesville and Barnesville ) or from one of our Farmers Market Locations .
Philip Barrows giovannisfarm . com ( 443 ) 574-4576 farmer @ giovannisfarm . com
n House in the Woods Farm Frederick County , MD Pickups on the farm , just on the edge of the Ag Reserve . Heirloom vegetables are a specialty .
Ilene and Phil Freedman houseinthewoods . com ( 301 ) 461-6575 ilene @ houseinthewoods . com
n LOVe & Grit Farm and East Rivendell Farm Germantown , MD We are passionate about local , fresh , naturally grown