U Pick ‘Em: 7 Tips for Visiting a Pick-Your-Own Farm

Go farm-to-table by visiting a pick-your-own farm.

Most of us don’t have the real estate to grow as many of our favorite crops as we’d like. This is especially true when it comes to seasonal fruit like blueberries, blackberries or peaches. Sure, we may have a few plants at the back of the yard or we can hit the farmer’s market when crops are at their peak, but nothing quite compares to the joy of picking your own, especially when the weather is nice and harvesting a flavorful bounty can double as a family outing. Farm-to-table food has never been more popular, and pick-your own farms are happy to oblige, opening their fields to hungry DIYers looking to load up on seasonal fruits and vegetables.

Here in North Carolina, pick-your-own strawberry farms are in full force right now and we aim to pick our fill (and then some). A great way to spend some family time outdoors and teach kids about where their food actually comes from, visiting a pick-your-own farm is a seasonal excursion that is likely to become an annual tradition. Here are a few tips to consider before hitting the fields.

1. Shop Around

There are plenty of pick-your-own farms out there. Prices, crop availability and amenities can vary widely, so check around before heading out. Do they provide containers? Are restrooms available? Is there someplace to take a break with the kids when the inevitable meltdown occurs? When it comes to pick-your-own farms, look before you reap.

2. Call Ahead

Hours and availability will vary and you may be advised to hold off from arriving during peak hours, warned of muddy field conditions or advised of newly opened fields ready to be harvested.

3. Dress for Success

A farmer for a day should dress the part. Sensible shoes and a hat are de rigueur and expect to get at least a little dirty. Long pants can protect your legs from collateral damage from blackberry bushes and sunscreen and insect repellent are a must, especially when pint-sized farmers are in tow.

4. Go Early

An early start will help beat the heat and give you a good shot at getting the best haul before the fields have been picked over by weekend crowds.

5. Ask a Farmer

What does a perfectly ripe raspberry look like? Will a slightly green strawberry ripen after it has been picked? It won’t. Farmers are generally a friendly lot. Asking questions will help you make the most of your day and score the best fruit when you’re not sure what you’re looking for.

6. Bring a Cooler

Pack a cooler with some snacks and plenty of cold drinks before venturing out.  After lunch, that cooler will come in handy for keeping your freshly picked fruits and vegetables cool for the ride home.

7. Use Your Bounty

It’s easy to go overboard picking your own fruits and vegetables and they will spoil sooner than you might think. Once you’ve eaten your fill (often in the car on the way home), have a plan to put the harvest to use. Make room in the freezer, share with friends or break out the mason jars for an afternoon of canning. As for me, I’ll be set for strawberry jam until it’s time to hit the fields next spring.