By Kelsey Horath
Every Saturday at Ruston Farmers Market in downtown, patrons can find different vendors selling anything from fresh produce and baked goods to candles and room sprays, live music and educational activities for children.
Among these multiple vendors and activities taking place, is Sue Renner, operator of Renner Gardens. At the market, Renner Gardens sells a varied selection of fresh and organic produce grown in Liddieville.
“Renner Gardens operates on land that is part of Delta Land Turf, our 200-acre family sod farm which has been in business since 1984,” Renner said. “I have about two acres of growing area consisting of outdoor garden and greenhouse space, where I grow and sell a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, fresh cut flowers and potted plants.”
Renner Gardens has been active in Ruston Farmers Market since 2011 and has greatly valued all the market offers for vendors.
“While there are other markets close enough for me to be involved with, Ruston Farmers Market offered all the things I was looking for: weekly market with consistent attendance, Louisiana grown products only, no resale — when you purchase, you are buying from the actual farmer, their family or their employee — community and family focused with educational events, run by a non-profit.” Renner said.
Adding to this, seeing the cheerful and curious faces on families during the event adds to the excitement of the day for Renner.
“I love seeing the faces of the people who utilize my products and having the opportunity to tell them about my organic practices,” Renner said. “I have made great friends at the market, seen children grow up and enjoyed the community atmosphere.”
RFM is open Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market is located at 220 E. Mississippi Ave.
Renner’s also shared her favorite Braised Greens Recipe, listed below.
Braised Greens Recipe
Thinly chop your greens of choice including the stems and heat 3-5 TBSP. of olive oil in a skillet that has a lid. If making a larger amount for serving, use a pot appropriate to size with a lid. Add chopped or minced onion, garlic (optional) and the chopped greens –- adding a little at a time, stirring them to coat with the hot oil. As they wilt, they will create their own liquid. Once you’ve added all your greens, reduce the heat to a slow simmer and cover. Let them steam in their own juices until they are as tender as you like them. Add a splash of Braggs Amino Acids, soy sauce and sprinkle of salt. To add to the taste, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar is optional.
