The Southern Coastlands: On The Subtropical Margin (Chapter 10)

Farming in Los Angeles, California in general. (This image is not mine, it is from http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/greenspace/2009/08/pesticides-parkinsons-disease-well-water-contamination.html)

There are plenty of produce markets around my neighborhood here in Los Angeles. In Chapter 10 of thebook the authors discussed the agriculture prevalent in the Southern Coastlands. They focused on Florida's important produce such as citrus fruits like orange. It is mentioned that only our state of "California exceeds Florida in the production of lemons and navel oranges." (p.192) Florida's citrus economy was first introduced by the Spanish during the 1500s. Like Florida, California also shared a European Spanish influence in its history. According to The Arboretum - Los Angeles County Aretum & Botanic Garden, "the Spanish missionaries brought with them many fruits and vegetables from Europe to (Southern) California and planted several orchards." The Spanish brought apples, oranges, lemons and others. Initially, when the Spanish came to California, they weren't agriculturally skilled. It took them a couple of years to get the handle of it, of course with the slavery of Native Americans. When the Spanish left California, the Mexicans took over and introduced the rancho system. The system really made great used of the fertile land in California.

Here are some of California's seasonal fruits and vegetables (according to about.com) : Apples, Apricots, Artichokes, Arugula, Asparagus, Avocados, Basil, Beets, Belgian Endive, Blackberries, Blueberries, Boysenberries, Broccoli, Broccoli raab, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage, Cantaloupes, Pumpkins, etc. Here is the link so you can check out the whole list : http://localfoods.about.com/od/searchbyregion/a/CAFruitsVeggies.htm

This is a picture of the Grand Central Public Market in Downtown Los Angeles.  I have been here a couple of times when I was in jury duty before this semester started.  They sell many things here other than fresh produce. The food they have in there are pretty good and inexpensive! (This image is not mine, it is from http://zanzinger.photoshelter.com/image/I0000fyN.FhkF8.k)

Here is a video showing Grand Central Public Market.