Natural abundance

Summer in the Sacramento region means a generous harvest of fresh fruit and vegetables. Farmers markets are the obvious option—you can find them around town nearly any day of the week. If you’re feeling adventurous, however, try venturing out to a farm or produce stand. Short of digging in the dirt yourself, it gets you just a little bit closer to growing it yourself. Here are three eco-friendly options to boost your summer bounty.

Father and Son Produce

This Roseville-based farm, open to the public from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday, sells vegetables, tree fruit and berries. The farm isn’t certified organic, but according to the family that runs it, it specializes in nutrient-rich soil and organic farming methods, including recycling waste into compost or chicken feed.

Their summer speciality: heirloom tomatoes and starter plants. 3435 Amoruso Way in Roseville; facebook.com/fatherandsonfarm.

24 Carrot Produce

Based in Placerville, this stand lets you pick your produce yourself. Choose from seasonal fruit (apples, berries, etc) as well as flowers and vegetables. Can’t make the drive? Sign up for their CSA delivery box. Open Thursday through Sunday. 2731 Jacquier Road in Placerville; 24carrotfarms.com.

Yellow Rose Ranch

This Lincoln farm, still in the process of being certified organic, aims to grow in a chemical-, antibiotic- and hormone-free way. In addition to seasonal fruits, Yellow Rose Ranch also specializes in free-range chicken and duck eggs. 560 Oak Tree Lane in Lincoln; yellowroseranch.org.