In this episode of Freshly Picked, host Claude Nash sits down with two special guests: Mississippi’s Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson and Leigh Bailey of Salad Days Produce. Together, they explore the importance of specialty crops like blueberries, native plants, and hydroponic lettuce in Mississippi’s agricultural landscape.

Commissioner Gipson shares how the Department of Agriculture is promoting Native Plant Month and supporting agribusiness expansions, like Salad Days’ recent groundbreaking for a 65,000-square-foot facility. Leigh Bailey gives listeners an inside look at the hydroponic farm's growth and their commitment to providing fresh, locally grown lettuces to restaurants and businesses across the region.

This episode highlights the significance of sustainable agriculture, pollinators' role in specialty crops, and ways native plants benefit both farmers and the environment. Whether you’re a gardener, foodie, or just curious about Mississippi’s agricultural innovations, this episode offers a fresh perspective on how these crops shape our local economy and community.

Tune in to Freshly Picked to discover how specialty crops—from blueberries to hydroponic greens—play a crucial role in Mississippi’s sustainable future. Find more episodes at msfreshlypicked.com or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode of Freshly Picked, we’re taking a deep dive into the farm-to-table journey of Mississippi's specialty crops, focusing on how these fall favorites—sweet potatoes, pumpkins, and more—go from seed to fork. Host Claude Nash is joined by two special guests: Guillermo "Billy" Salinas of Food Network’s Halloween Baking Championship and owner of Just Vanilla Bake Shop, and Natasha Haynes, Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent with the MSU Extension Service.

Together, they explore the versatility of specialty crops in seasonal baking and everyday cooking, sharing tips on incorporating healthy, locally sourced ingredients into our diets. From behind-the-scenes stories at Billy’s bakery to Natasha’s expert advice on supporting local agriculture, this episode is packed with insights on how to make the most of Mississippi’s homegrown treasures.

Whether you're a food lover, a farmer, or simply curious about the local food scene, tune in to discover how these vibrant crops make it from Mississippi farms to our tables, and why they are key to our state’s agricultural success.

In this episode of Freshly Picked, we’re taking a closer look at Mississippi’s specialty crops and the delicious value-added products they inspire! Host Claude Nash is joined by two expert guests: Jan Cook-Houston from Sweet Potato Sweets in Vardaman, and Kirk Hutchinson from Power of the Almond Bakery in Starkville.

Our guests dive into their unique businesses, sharing stories about how they transform local crops like sweet potatoes, pecans, and blueberries into mouthwatering treats. From Jan’s famous Sweet Potato Fudge to Kirk’s low-carb, gluten-free, and keto-friendly goodies made with almond flour, you’ll hear all about the art of creating delectable, healthy value-added products.

They also explore the challenges and joys of using locally grown ingredients, with insights on how Mississippi’s Genuine MS program helps support businesses like theirs.

Whether you’re a fan of sweet treats or curious about supporting local agriculture, this episode is filled with tasty tips and inspiring stories that highlight the best of Mississippi’s specialty crops.

Tune in to discover how Mississippi’s finest crops are baked, crafted, and shared across the state!

In this episode of Freshly Picked, we explore the vibrant world of Mississippi agritourism—a flourishing industry that blends agriculture with tourism to create unforgettable farm experiences. From pumpkin patches and corn mazes to Christmas tree farms and sweet potato festivals, agritourism invites families to the countryside for a hands-on taste of farm life.

Host Claude Nash is joined by three special guests to dive into this exciting sector. Stanley Wise, owner of Wise Family Farms and President of the Mississippi Agritourism Association, shares how his farm has evolved and discusses the crops that make agritourism thrive. Benton Moseley of Moseley Meadows reflects on his family’s Christmas tree farm and how it led to a successful agritourism venture. Finally, Amber Dauzat, MSU Extension Agent and Secretary of the Vardaman Sweet Potato Festival, talks about her passion for promoting Mississippi’s sweet potato industry and the vibrant festival that celebrates it.

Whether you’re interested in farm-to-table education, outdoor adventures, or the sweet side of agriculture, this episode covers it all. We also chat about upcoming festivals, the Genuine MS branding initiative, and even some tasty sweet potato recipes!

Tune in for a fresh perspective on how agritourism is shaping Mississippi’s agricultural future.

In this episode of Freshly Picked, we’re celebrating the fall season by digging into Mississippi’s rich tradition of sweet potato and pumpkin farming! Host Claude Nash is joined by three seasoned farmers: Sylvia Clark of Clark Farms and The Tater Shed, Caleb Englert of Englert Farms and President of the Mississippi Sweet Potato Council, and Aaron Stovall of Dry Bottom Farms & Nursery.

As Halloween and Thanksgiving approach, our guests give an inside look at their growing seasons, the different varieties of sweet potatoes and pumpkins they cultivate, and the innovative practices shaping the future of their farms. They also share some delicious sweet potato and pumpkin recipes, along with tips for carving the perfect Jack-O-Lantern. Plus, we learn about the importance of the Genuine MS program and how it helps support local farms.

Whether you’re a fan of farm-to-table goodness or love a good fall festival, this episode is packed with insights and tips to get you ready for the season.

Tune in to hear how Mississippi's specialty crops are grown, harvested, and enjoyed across the state!

Join us in Episode 4 of Freshly Picked as we elevate your culinary game!

In this episode, we chat with Chef Hunter Evans of Elvie's and Don Kazery, Jr. from Kazery Farms in Jackson, MS. Discover how specialty herbs, fruits veggies, and even edible flowers journey from farm to table, creating exquisite dishes and fresh flavors.

Tune in, savor the insights, and explore the synergy between farm-fresh ingredients and culinary artistry.

Join us in Episode 3 of Freshly Picked as we dive into the fascinating world of specialty herbs!

In this episode, we explore the unique realm of specialty crops with Nan Moak of Dandelion and Crow, Nick Hartley from Compass Point Blend, and Caroline Warner of CW Body Organics, Herbal Apothecary. Discover how these herbal experts cultivate and craft exceptional herbs into vibrant blends and holistic remedies.

Tune in, grab a cup of tea, and uncover the magic and artistry behind these specialty crops!

Join us in Episode 2 of Freshly Picked as we delve into the world of U-Pick farms, a true celebration of fresh, hands-on harvests!

In this episode, we chat with Dana Nowell from Twelve2 Farm, Shunda Garner of Geneva Springs Farm, and Jenni Campbell of Taylor Flower Patch about the joys and challenges of running U-Pick farms. From vibrant fruits to stunning flowers, discover the stories behind these farms and the people who bring fresh-picked goodness to our tables.

Listen in and get inspired by the people growing our farm-fresh specialty crop food and flowers!