Fruits and veggies taste best when you pick your way through North Carolina at U-pick farms, fresh produce stands, and markets. In Haywood County several options exist, but what makes this place so special is the loving embrace of the Great Smoky Mountains. Where else can you find farm-fresh ingredients for a favorite recipe and pretty flowers for the table in such a breathtaking setting?

1. Ten Acre Garden: Canton

Beginning in May, you can pick strawberries and wildflowers, including lupine and poppies. Asparagus and rhubarb are available while supplies last. Look for blackberries and veggies as the summer progresses. Visit the on-farm market on weekends and try one of the oven-fired pizzas! Discover more on the Ten Acre Garden website.

2. KT's Orchard and Apiary: Canton

U-Pick seasons vary with raspberries, blueberries, peaches, nectarines, and eggs, plus more than 75 types of apples, such as gala, honeycrisp, blondee, and many heirloom varieties! And products made from raw honey can be found for sale at the farm.

Read all about it on KT's Orchard and Apiary Facebook page.

3. Sustainabillies: Canton

The science is deep here where all of the soils have been built by hand. The owners offer tools, art, furniture, homestead products, and other metal goods handcrafted from their solar-powered sustainable shop. Join a workshop; or purchase some plant starts; eggplant; Mexican marigolds, calendula, and other lovely flowers; herbs, peppers, and a long list of fresh produce. For further details, visit the Sustainabillies website.

4. Haywood's Historic Farmers Market: Waynesville

Established in 2008, this producer-only market sources produce from Haywood or an adjacent county. Shop for nursery plants, meats, dairy, eggs, honey, fish, flowers, baked goods, and heritage crafts. Find out what else on Haywood's Historic Farmers Market website.

5. Mill Town Farmers Market: Canton

Located at Sorrells Street Park, this community event offers fresh local produce, jams, eggs, pickles, baked goods, cheese, fresh-cut flowers, crafts, live music, and so much more. Find other details on the Mill Town Farmers Market website.

6. Barber Orchards Fruit Stand: Waynesville

For more than five generations, this family-owned and operated business has featured more than 25 varieties of apples, peaches, pears, fresh vegetables, and flowers - all grown on the farm. The staff also makes apple cider and bakes delicious apple-themed baked goods. See what else on Barber Orchards Fruit Stand website.

7. Duckett's Produce: West Canton

For more than a century, this small family farm has remained at the forefront of North Carolina agriculture. Enjoy the seasonal offerings of heirloom tomatoes, green beans, watermelons, plants, flowers, and pumpkins.

Discover more on the Duckett's Produce Facebook page.

8. Christopher Farms: Waynesville

Welcome to a bountiful assortment of Amish cheese, condiments, and meat. Choose your favorite fresh regional produce at this year-round market, including delicious fruits and veggies. Find more details on the

Christopher Farms Facebook page.

Are you ready to pick your way through North Carolina or stop at some of these delightful produce stands and farmers markets? While you're in Haywood County, spend some more time shopping and exploring in the charming town of Waynesville. And stay all night at The Yellow House on Plott Creek.