Dixie, Louisiana is at the edge of Shreveport with a population of 273 people. The town is petite in size, but noteworthy in agriculture. One of Dixie’s well-kept secrets is Ryan Farms Produce, a small farmers’ market located at 7970 Dixie-Shreveport Road along Highway 3049 North.
Ryan Farms Produce is a discreet gem that Boom or Bust Byway locals have treasured for nearly three decades. Because of its low-key status and small-town charm, the only payment that they accept is cash and local checks. As you shop around the market, you can feel a sense of down-home, wholesome pride in their product and operation. I was immediately greeted by Caleb Ryan, son of Owner Scott Ryan, who showed me around the market, told me about the family and farm’s history, and directed me to the peach orchard. It was an honor to get a fresh taste of Ryan Farms Produce.
Ryan Farms patriarch, Scott Ryan, is a third generation farmer that has grown produce since 1993. The family began nurturing crops as an experiment, which later grew into one of the largest produce operations in the area. Ryan Farms cultivated their loyal customers by selling the juiciest watermelons, sweetest peaches, most gigantic cantaloupes, the cleanest purple hull peas you can find, and more. Everything purchased at Ryan Farms Produce is grown on Ryan Farms. In most cases, all available produce is gathered the morning of the market or the day prior. Additionally, this farmers’ market often offers its customers U-pick experiences based on produce availability and seasonal crops. Soon, there will be U-pick tomatoes for everyone to enjoy.
Ryan Farms Produce is open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday – Friday and 8 a.m. to noon on Saturday. For more information about Ryan Farms Produce, U-pick opportunities, and more, visit www.ryanfarmsproduce.com or call 318-425-3004. If your niche is steered toward farm-fresh produce, you’ll also find my blog post about Morell Dairy Farm in Mooringsport quite useful. It will tell you everything you need to know about scoring creamy milk and butter on our Byway. For more information about the Boom or Bust Byway, visit www.BoomOrBustByway.com or follow us on Facebook or Instagram for the latest updates. Better yet, turn your hunt for farm-fresh produce into road trip by downloading the Boom or Bust Byway app on Google Play or the Apple Store.