The 2012 Rockmart Farmers Market is nearing the end of its most successful season with a weekly average of 20-24 vendors.

These producers continue to gather from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursdays under the oaks on Water Street, downtown. Plans are to close the popular site in November.

It has not only been successful for local vegetable growers but also is a niche market for such items as jams, jellies and home baked breads and sweets.

Customers can still find late summer and fall produce. These include sweet potatoes, mustard and turnip greens, winter squash, peppers and more.

“Our vendors have indicated they will return in May of 2013,” said Manager Mandy Mallicoat.

She said people arrive at the market not only to find fresh vegetables and other products but also to socialize.

This proved true Thursday when several visitors reminded other shoppers of the “beautiful chrysanthemums” on display.

These were offered by Kay and Leonard Brogdon, Valley Flowers. This couple grows not only mums but also Leyland Cypress. The flowers are watered three times daily and trimmed to get the desirable shape.

“Everyone loves flowers,” Kay said. “Mums are among the favorites of many people.”

Donald Cochran, Taylorsville, said he has brought a variety of fruits and vegetables to market.

“It is a good place to sell and the people are friendly,” he said.

Shoppers Falina and Joyce Hitchcock commented on their return visit to purchase bread from Fire & Iron.

“Everything we have tried is wonderful,” they agreed. “We always return to get more. The rolls are wonderful.”

Shonna Kirkpatrick, who was with Sierra Kirkpatrick and Brooklyn Blansit, said she started making bread at home.

Her product is now marketed under the Fire & Iron name.

“Once I started baking, I wanted to check out the demand,” she said. “I came here and can’t keep enough baked to satisfy everyone.”