The earliest cherries of the season are the Sequoias from Arvin (south of Bakersfield) a variety bred for warmer climates and early production. It is a sweet crunchy cherry that will improve throughout the season, with more varieties to follow from further north. Vickie and Steve Murray from Murray Family Farms; Wednesday Santa Monica, Saturday Santa Barbara, Torrance.
Red and gold cherry tomatoes from the Imperial Valley from Tamai Farm. Wednesday, Saturday, Pico Santa Monica; other area markets.
Bell peppers also get an early start in the Imperial Valley heat. Tamai Farm.
Charlotte totes a big bunch of flowers while Mom finishes shopping.
Stefano De Lorenzo, owner of La Botte restaurant in Santa Monica shops at the Wednesday market.