I can't stay away from my local market here in Portland, Oregon. In late summer, I leave with fragrant melons and plums, soft handmade cheeses, tomatoes and steaks that require little more than salt, pepper and a grill. In the fall, it might be orange squashes, chilies and pork shoulder.

What's for sale at a farmers market changes constantly, in step with the season.

Expect to discover amazing food at your farmers market, but don't expect to find all things for sale at all times, like they are at the grocery store. Go with the seasonal flow and you won't be disappointed. Here are six simple tips for shopping the farmers market way:

Let the market write your list
I'd never make it as a home economist, because I advocate leaving plans and lists behind when heading to the farmers market. Instead, let your senses guide you in some on-the-spot decision-making. Choose fruits and vegetables that appeal to you and taste good (ask farmers for samples). The peach that tempts with its honeyed scent is the peach you should buy.

Comparison shop
It pays to go through the entire market before you get down to shopping. As you take in the sights, you will see differences in quality as well as price.

Buy from all food groups
Farmers markets aren't just about produce. Look for dairy, eggs, pastured meats, wild fish and poultry. You may find nuts, beans and freshly milled grains. And don't pass up the edibles unique to your region -- including wild mushrooms, foraged foods like nettles and fiddlehead ferns, and honey that tastes of its flower source.

Choose a mix of the new and familiar
Looking to include more fruits and vegetables in your diet? Start with local fruit, which is sweeter because it is allowed to ripen before picking. Next, pick a vegetable you've never tried and ask the farmer how to prepare it. Finally, fill out your basket with standard purchases like broccoli, carrots and lettuce, and note how they compare to their grocery store counterparts.

Save money by buying at the peak of the season
When local crops peak, take advantage of dropping prices to stock up and even preserve. Consult your university extension office for information on canning, pickling, smoking and drying. Or just use your freezer to catch the seasonal moment by stuffing it with berries, fresh tomato sauce and pesto.

Share the harvest
It's only natural to get carried away at the farmers market. We must be programmed to carry home as much as we can when we see large displays of gorgeous food. If this happens to you, go with it. Don't feel guilty. Use the abundance as an excuse for a party. Invite guests to help cook, then gather around a buffet of local bounty and celebrate.

Just remember to pick up a bouquet of flowers for your table before you leave the market.