We have a farmer's market right down the street and I've found some tricks to getting good deals:
1) Some things sell out early (lettuce goes fast) while others don't. I like to go around the end of the day when they start to slash prices. Everyone wants to go home with an empty truck, so I can usually get a lot more for a lot less.
2) You can get a better deal if you buy in bulk, even on things like honey. I'll always ask if there is a discount on larger quantities.
3) Buy what's in season. I keep track of the prices and seasons, so I know at the start of the apple season prices are going to be higher than the prime season. I'll buy sparingly at the start of the season and in bulk at the height of the season. You'll notice then when you see every vendor selling a ton of apples
4) Scout out before you buy. I do a walk through first because everyone has slightly different prices. It is a pain to buy 1 item at each vendor, but too many times I have spent much more buying at the first stall I see, then comparing all the prices.
5)If you are looking to do some canning or make jam, talk to the farmer and ask if you can place an order ahead of time. You can sometimes negotiate for a better price because they know when they are packing up that they have a guaranteed sale.
