Off busy Highway 50, hundreds of farmers and ranchers produce an amazing abundance and variety of agricultural products. In spring the many types of fruit trees begin to bloom and add their rainbow of pastels to the landscape. Early vegetables such as asparagus and an array of citrus crops are available at a number of ranches. With May and June the many cherry orchards offer their delicious fruit.

The local Certified Farmers Markets (May-October) offer fresh, locally grown and produced vegetables, fruit, flowers, honey and eggs to appreciative customers weekly in four locations in El Dorado County: Placerville, Cameron Park, South Lake Tahoe and El Dorado Hills.

Summer brings many types of berries, peaches, plums and all the vast array of quality summer vegetables. Buy them direct from the ranches, or visit the Farmers markets for a centralized shopping experience.

Apple Hill is the perfect fall destination. Everyone thinks of an October visit, but did you know that apples and pears are available from Labor Day through Christmas? Come and eat lunch at one of the many ranches to offer light fare, or bring your own picnic to enjoy at a perfect picnic spot. Don't bother to bring dessert, though, because you will find your favorite apple treat at an Apple Hill bakeshop. If you want a perfect pumpkin it is growing somewhere in Apple Hill.

Fall is also when the renowned El Dorado County vineyards and wineries pick the many varieties of wine grapes and begin the "crush". It is an exciting time to taste all the County has to offer.

When the last Thanksgiving pie has been baked at local bakeshops, the county's many Christmas tree farms open for business. It certainly is much more fun to find and cut your very own tree than it is to buy it from a parking lot somewhere.

Mountain air, warm country hospitality and the harvest atmosphere are a tonic for visiting city residents and their families. El Dorado County has something for every taste, all year round.

Page last updated: Monday, April 18, 2005 2:10 PM