Top Local Flowers, Plants, and Vegetables to Experience in August in Hastings, Minnesota

August in Hastings is a time when nature decides to show off a bit, putting on a grand display that’s nothing short of botanical fireworks. It’s the month where sunflowers stand tall like local heroes, tomatoes burst with flavor like juicy little grenades, and marigolds add that extra pop of color that makes everything feel just a bit more magical. So, grab your gardening gloves, your picnic baskets, and your sense of adventure as we dive into the top local flowers, plants, and vegetables to experience this month. Trust me, you won’t want to miss a single petal or bite.

1. Sunflowers

Origin Story: Sunflowers are like the golden retrievers of the plant world—bright, cheerful, and always facing the sun. Native to North America, these towering beauties have been cultivated since 1000 B.C.

Local Use: In Hastings, sunflowers are more than just pretty faces. Local artists use sunflower heads in natural dyeing processes, creating stunning yellow hues for fabrics. The seeds? Perfect for a homegrown snack or tossed into a fresh salad.

Where to Find Them: Visit Burks Blooms Flower Farm for a lovely sunflower patch perfect for a family outing, or head to Afton Apple Orchard for more sunflower delights.

2. Tomatoes

Origin Story: Imagine a world without pizza or spaghetti sauce. Horrifying, right? Thankfully, the Aztecs cultivated tomatoes in 700 A.D., saving us from culinary doom. Brought to Europe by explorers, tomatoes became a global sensation.

Local Use: The Hastings community loves tomatoes in everything from classic BLTs to award-winning salsas. Pro tip: try making a Caprese salad with local basil and mozzarella for a taste of summer on a plate.

Where to Find Them: Visit Hastings Farm Market for an array of tomato varieties.

3. Zinnias

Origin Story: Native to the scrubby grasslands of Mexico, zinnias are like the resilient underdogs of the flower world. They thrive in the toughest conditions and burst forth in a riot of colors, much like the spirit of Minnesotans.

Local Use: Zinnias make excellent cut flowers, brightening up any kitchen table. They’re also a favorite for local DIY projects—think handmade greeting cards and pressed flower art.

Where to Find Them: Local nurseries, Burks Blooms Flower Farm, and Afton Apple Orchard are great sources for zinnias.

4. Sweet Corn

Origin Story: Sweet corn is as American as apple pie—or maybe even more so. Indigenous peoples cultivated it thousands of years ago, and it’s been a staple ever since.

Local Use: Whether grilled, boiled, or turned into sweet corn ice cream (yes, it’s a thing), this veggie is a local favorite. Don’t miss out on the annual Sweet Corn Festival, where you can chow down to your heart’s content.

Where to Find Them: Mac's Sweet Corn pick’s fresh and sells daily in the parking lot next to the Hastings Inn and Hastings Farmer's Markets. Afton Apple Orchard is a go-to spot for the freshest sweet corn.

5. Cucumbers

Origin Story: Cucumbers have been cooling us down since 3,000 B.C., originating from the foothills of the Himalayas. They’ve traveled far and wide, just to end up in your summer salad.

Local Use: Beyond salads, cucumbers are the star in refreshing summer drinks and spa treatments. Try a local cucumber and mint cocktail or a homemade cucumber face mask.

Where to Find Them: Hastings Farmers Market offers the freshest cucumbers. Community gardens also share their bounties with residents.

6. Peppers

Origin Story: Peppers, both sweet and spicy, hail from Central and South America. They’ve been adding a kick to our meals since 7,500 B.C. They’re like the rockstars of the veggie world—versatile and always bringing the heat.

Local Use: From stuffed bell peppers to spicy pepper jelly, locals use peppers in a variety of creative ways. Don’t forget to try the homemade pepper relish at the next town fair.

Where to Find Them: Hastings Farm Market have a variety of peppers. Home growers often sell their extras at pop-up stands.

7. Basil

Origin Story: Basil’s journey from the Indian subcontinent to your pesto sauce is nothing short of epic. This aromatic herb has been revered for its culinary and medicinal properties for over 5,000 years.

Local Use: In Hastings, basil is the go-to herb for everything from pesto to basil-infused olive oil. Try a local basil lemonade for a refreshing twist.

Where to Find Them: Local herb gardens and the Hastings Farmers Market are perfect for picking up fresh basil.

8. Marigolds

Origin Story: Marigolds, with their vibrant orange and yellow blooms, have been celebrated since the days of the Aztecs. They symbolize everything from the sun’s power to spiritual purity.

Local Use: Marigolds aren’t just for looks. They’re used in local teas, natural dyes, and even as pest repellents in gardens. Their petals add a pop of color to any dish.

Where to Find Them: Visit local nurseries and Burks Blooms Flower Farm to find marigolds. They’re also popular in community gardens.

9. Pumpkins

Origin Story: Pumpkins have been a part of American history since 7,500 B.C. Native to North America, they’ve been a key player in both culinary traditions and Halloween festivities.

Local Use: From pumpkin pie to roasted seeds, pumpkins are a fall favorite. Locals also use them for decorations and in soups. Don’t miss the pumpkin carving contests come October.

Where to Find Them: Hastings Farmers Market, Whistling Well Farm, Afton Apple Orchard, and local pumpkin patches are your best bets for finding the perfect pumpkin.

10. Dahlias

Origin Story: Dahlias, native to Mexico, were cultivated by the Aztecs for food and medicine. Today, they’re prized for their stunningly diverse blooms and vibrant colors.

Local Use: Dahlias are a favorite for local florists and home gardeners alike. Their intricate blooms are perfect for bouquets and centerpieces. They’re also used in local botanical art.

Where to Find Them: Burks Blooms Flower Farm, and local nurseries are ideal places to find these beauties.

And there you have it, Hastings! Your August itinerary of local flora and fauna. Whether you’re munching on fresh cucumbers, crafting with zinnias, or snapping selfies in a sunflower field, there’s something here for everyone. So get out there and experience the best of what our little corner of Minnesota has to offer.