Fresh From the Field — Farmer Dave’s Returns for Summer Market Season

May 8, 2026

The Summer Market is officially underway! Thank you to everyone who joined us for opening day. It was wonderful to see so many familiar and new faces enjoying the fresh May air. (Even though it felt more like early winter!)

There’s something special about being back outside — feeling the ground beneath our feet, seeing the market tents bright in the sunshine, and welcoming back the vendors who make our Summer Market such a meaningful part of the season.

Among those returning to our market community is Farmer Dave’s, a diversified farm based in Dracut and Tewksbury. Known for their seasonal fruits, vegetables, flowers, and farm-baked goods, Farmer Dave’s is rooted in a mission of growing healthy food, strengthening local communities, and creating traditions that span generations.

From early greens and asparagus to late-summer apples, squash, and corn, Farmer Dave’s brings the flavors of New England’s growing season straight to the market. You’ll also find locally grown beans and lentils, plus baked favorites like biscuits, cookies, and scones.

They also offer year-round CSA shares with pickups in surrounding communities. At their Dracut farm, visitors can enjoy an expanding pick-your-own program and school tours that introduce younger generations to New England farming traditions. (And their ice cream alone is worth the visit.)

We spoke with Farmer Dave’s partner, Jane Bowie, to get a glimpse of what’s “cropping” up this season.

What early-season crops will we be seeing at the market?
This Sunday we’ll have spinach, potted herbs, asparagus — if Mother Nature cooperates; if not, next Sunday — along with gorgeous hanging baskets and tasty hanging strawberry baskets.

Any new products you’re excited to bring this year?
Tulips! We’ll have stunning cut tulip bouquets. This is the first time we’ve grown them, and they’re just lovely.

Any new projects or crops at Farmer Dave’s this season?
Dave always surprises us. We have more than 100 crops in the crop plan, so there are usually plenty of surprises throughout the season — although Mother Nature often has the final say.

Stop by the Farmer Dave’s stand this month and take a peek at what’s growing this season. Pick up potted herbs for spring soups and stews, or start dreaming ahead to strawberry shortcakes and summer gatherings.

After all, the Valley is its own harvest basket — so bloom where you’ve been planted.

And here at the Salem NH Farmers Market, we’ll always be here to “plant smiles, grow laughter, and harvest love.”