Spring is a favorite time of year to hit the open air farmer’s markets when creating menus for those spring salads and family barbeques.

But how do you gauge the freshness and quality of your local farmer’s market? National Geographic has the answer with tips and resources for farmer’s market shoppers to ensure they are making the most of spring food favorites.

It’s all part of National Geographic Green Guide’s mission to inspire consumers of all stripes to make green, healthy purchase decisions that will lead to healthier lives and a healthier planet in general.

Also see our Editor’s Blog about some of her favorite farmer’s markets.