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When Ellis Monroe started sharing the fresh basil, oregano, thyme, peppermint, tomatoes and eggplant he grew in raised beds in his backyard with friends and neighbors, they raved about the flavors.
After two successful seasons as a backyard gardener, Monroe purchased a half-acre of land in Chapel Hill, expanded his to create Ellis Herbs and applied to be part of the North Carolina hemp pilot program.
He wanted to expand to a larger audience, but after researching several local farmers markets, he felt there were barriers to participation.
“The other markets were more expensive and were more for farmers who’ve been at this for a while, who were established,” he said.