Increasing demand for ethnic food offers small farmers a tremendous opportunity to diversify their food production to appeal to immigrants, particularly West and East African, Caribbean, Asian, and Hispanic populations. Small Farm Resource Center coordinator, Michael Carter Jr. of Carter Farms, and Dr. Nadine Burton of University of Maryland Eastern Shore and Tallawah Farms, will lead this workshop to show small farmers how to grow and market crops that appeal to these customers by getting an early start in the greenhouse. While some ethnic vegetables are unique and exotic, others can include familiar vegetables such as tomatoes, peppers, and squash, which are known by different names in varying cultural communities. Growing specific crops and varieties for ethnic groups can open new and exciting markets. Farmers who understand their communities’ demographics and which vegetables are in demand can consider diversifying vegetable crops to increase their customer base and improve profits.

For more information, contact the Small Farm Outreach Program at (804) 524-3292 or [email protected].

If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at [email protected] or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.