MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP - Many local residents filled into the tents of the Meridian Farmers' Market, stocking up on local produce that's now in season.

Though what some buyers may not realize is how this year's dry season has affected the amount of fruits and vegetables some local farmers have been able to produce.

"The dry season is all dependent upon what Mother Nature decides. This year it's a little bit earlier than usual," said Christine Miller, Meridian Farmers' Market Manager.

Miller said the weather is usually more moist during May and June. Dryer weather makes planting more difficult because crops won't get enough water for a good start.

"So far, most farmers are holding their own," Miller said. She said they may need to use a combination of irrigation if they're able to, or just rely on nature.

While some crops may manage until there's more rain, a dry season could mean more long term effects that spill over into the fall. This would mean lower quality and a smaller yield of plants and vegetables, especially tomatoes, that require more water to thrive and reach maturity.

Rebecca Titus, owner of Titus Farms, said some of their vegetables have been a little behind schedule. Titus said the plants that are usually the most affected by a dry spell include zucchini, cucumbers, kale, lettuce, radishes, peas, and carrots.

"They need a lot of water to germinate," Titus said. To combat the dry season, Titus said she tries to plant a large variety of crops that don't all require a lot of water, which helps things even out.

But the effects are not all negative. Miller said the market now has blueberries for the first time this season, and they've been able to have strawberries much longer this year because they thrive well in dryer conditions.

Despite some concern about market sales and customers being disappointed about not having certain crops at the market, Titus said this is not the worst dry season she's seen and she feels optimistic about what's to come.

"Farmers tend to be very resourceful people, so we'll find a way to get through it," Titus said.

The Meridian Farmer's Market is open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm.