Kandarian Organic Farms retires from Santa Monica market

Larry Kandarian, a beloved vendor known for his ancient grains, is retiring from the Santa Monica Farmers Market. His last day will be Wednesday, May 14. For 15 years, Kandarian brought grains like einkorn and farro from his San Luis Obispo farm. He previously worked as a mechanical engineer and designed machinery for Bodger Seeds before transitioning to organic farming in 2007. Kandarian, recognized by his hat and ponytail, will retire to Michoacan with his wife. He cultivated approximately 1,000 varieties of seeds at Kandarian Organic Farms.