Five lesser-known farmers markets

Mother Nature’s horn of plenty is on full display at your local farmer’s market, as summer corn and tomatoes make way for winter squash and Brussels sprouts.

There’s no need to jostle with the crowds at Union Square to check out these locally grown delights; the five markets below sell the same great produce, meat and fish in more friendly local settings.

Abingdon Square Greenmarket
Eigth Avenue & 12th St., Saturday 8-2
Laid-back and full of neighborhood charm, this market also showcases some of the region’s most savory meats and cheeses: Hoosic River Poultry sells handsome pork chops, duck breasts and even pre-marinated fowl; Valley Shepherd Creamery is known for its golden Manchego, smooth Pecorino and delicate Crème de Bleu. After you’ve stocked up, enjoy a freshly baked scone or miniature pie from Meredith’s Bread in quaint Abingdon Square Park.

Fort Greene Greenmarket
A great alternative to crowded Grand Army Plaza, this tree-canopied market alongside Fort Greene Park boasts ample samples and a wide variety of produce. At the Wilklow Orchards stand, bulbous, tie-dyed heirloom tomatoes share the spotlight with their plump, beefsteak brethren; down the block, D+J Organic Farm sells punchy Kimchee cabbage, beets, tofu and radishes.
Southeast corner of Fort Greene Park, Saturday 8-5

Harvest Home Union Settlement Market
104th St., btwn Second and Third aves., Thursday 8-4. For more info or to volunteer, go to harvesthomefm.org Upper East Siders are wise to head north to this long-standing market in East Harlem, one of several operated by Harvest Home, an organization whose mission is to increase access to fresh food in low-income communities (a Sunday market takes place at 106th St. & Third Avenue). Start with the luscious bunches of mustard greens, Swiss chard and basil at Migliorelli Farm. Then head to the expansive spread at RG Produce for white-violet eggplants, towering bunches of scallions and a rainbow of lettuces. On your way out, pick up some mini watermelons or purple plums at Troncillito Farms.

Inwood Greenmarket
Isham and Cooper St., Saturday 8-3
This lovely market at the base of scenic Inwood Hill Park offers a full cornucopia of earthly delights, including heaps of corn and bright yellow zucchini from Glebocki Farms; petite, juicy New York strawberries from Samascott Orchards; and delicious vegan carrot raisin cookies from Breezy Hill Orchard.

Jackson Heights Greenmarket
34th Avenue & 77th St., Sunday 8-3
Along the perimeter of family-friendly Travers Park lies this recently expanded market, home to nearly 15 vendors selling produce, honey and even exotic mushrooms. Check out American Seafood Inc. for impossibly fresh, affordably priced cuts of swordfish, cod and more. Nolasco Farm is the place for sweet and spicy peppers. .

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