What's Fresh?
Refer to these handy availability calendars to see what's currently available and in season!
Tips for U-Pick
- It is a good idea to call or email the farm to confirm they have the fruit or vegetable you want and are open, BEFORE you drive out there.
What to bring
- If you live some distance away, you may want to pack for a day trip, bringing snacks, hand towels or disposable wipes and plenty of liquids to drink.
- Bring containers for picking and for carrying the fruit home. Some farms provide them, but usually for a fee. If you live some distance away, you may want to bring a cooler to store your pick.
- Dress in old clothes and worn closed-toe shoes; you want to be comfortable and not worried about staining or tearing your clothes.
- Wearing a wide-brimmed hat will help protect you from the summer sun; and in the Fall, extra layers keep you warm. Apply sunscreen to any exposed skin.
- If you bring young helpers, take some time at the beginning to explain how to identify and pick ripe fruit. If you don't know see our tips (below) and be sure to ask the farm hands where the field has been picked out, so you don't waste time in unproductive areas of the field.
Farm Rules
Every farm is a bit different. Some have more relaxed rules, others more strict. It is probably a good idea to do a little research about the farm you plan to visit ahead of time, especially if you have young children. Prior to the visit, it might be a good opportunity to discuss with your children the do's and don'ts of visiting a working farm. Here are some general farm rules:- Read and follow all rules and regulations posted by owners at their picking locations.
- Look for the check-in and check-out areas. Before picking, note whether you will be charged according to weight, volume or count. Also, inquire if there is a minimum quantity requirement.
- Place trash in proper receptacles or take it with you;
- Avoid areas with parked or moving tractors and equipment;
- Health codes usually require no pets in the fields - sometimes the farmers own pet will be wondering about;
- Call in advance to find out if the fruit/vegetables you want are available, to get directions, check their opening and closing hours and to ask if children are welcome (some farms prohibit young children who might damage plants);
- Walk in the rows to avoid stepping on plants!