Market Musings: J. Dykstra Produce hits all the bases for produce needs

There's a phrase used in baseball known as a "five tool player." Normally this means that a player excels in categories such as hitting, fielding, and throwing. If you're looking for a five tool player at the Fulton Street Farmers Market, look no further than J. Dykstra Produce. Based out of Byron Center, the farm specializes in produce - even if you can't find it in Michigan.

"In the spring when the market first opens, we carry everything that is out of state from corn to beans, cherries, strawberries, plums," said Stephanie Fite. "As Michigan produce starts coming into season, then we start carrying the Michigan produce. Right now we have Indiana cantaloupes, Michigan raspberries, peaches, strawberries, cherries, plums, and blueberries."

One of the more unique things you'll find at J. Dykstra produce is the chestnut, which Fite noted is their specialty product. They are harvested in the fall. She also said that they are best eaten raw, roasted, boiled, or even used in some stuffing recipes. 

"That's our main thing that we grow," Fite said. "Otherwise, our goal is to bring Michigan fruits and vegetables that were grown here locally to the availability of the open public." 

Like many of the farmers you'll meet at the market, Fite spoke high praise of the atmosphere that comes along with setting up shop at the market.

"The people are great here. Everybody is super friendly, and you meet so many different people from so many different backgrounds and genres. It's great."

If you're looking to grab some in state or out of state produce, or maybe even some chestnuts come the change of the leaves, head on down to the Fulton Street farmer's Market. They’ll be sure to have what you're looking for.