A few not-so-typical crops on the North Fork
The North Fork isn’t just corn, strawberries, pumpkins and grapes. While it remains to be seen what will become of the region’s kelp, you should keep an eye out for these locally grown products that are anything but the typical crop.
LAVENDER
Like many North Fork farms, the headquarters of Lavender by the Bay in East Marion were created by converting an old potato farm. Today, English and French varieties of lavender grow on the 17 acre-property, the extract of which is used as an antiseptic. The edible bloom, which will be harvested this week, is also celebrated for its rich fragrance.
How much? $12 for a 10 mm bottle of essential oil.
ZUCCHINI FLOWERS
Grown at Wells Farm in Aquebogue, zucchini flowers are exactly that: flowers from a zucchini plant. Also called zucchini blossoms, they’re often served deep-fried or tossed into a salad. Keep an eye out for ‘em: They’ll be in bloom this month.
How much? $4 to $5 for an 8-pack.
FIG TREES
Find these fruits at Windy Acres Farm in Calverton, where Austin and Rita Funfgeld have been growing them for close to 25 years. You can purchase Turkish brown, white and Italian purple varieties.
How much? About $1 per fig. Or, buy a whole tree for $30 to $40.
