There are a plethora of fruits and vegetables that are available in You Pick operations this time of year. Strawberries were available in June. July has cherries and blueberries. As the season progresses there are apples, pears, peaches and grapes available. Other farms have squash, tomatoes, peppers and pumpkins. This is a partial list. Depending on the weather and growing season there are more options.
If you want to experience picking your own fruit, there are a few recommendations to make it a wonderful experience.
Check out the farm first. Most places have Facebook pages or websites. Check out the hours, the prices, where to park and other important information.
Dress for the occasion. As one farmer put it: this isn’t Disneyland, this is a working farm. Expect uneven surfaces to walk on, sticks, fallen fruit and other items on the ground. Therefore, wear closed toed shoes. This is extremely important for your protection. Long pants and long sleeves are often suggested, but not required. It is also a good idea to have a brimmed hat. The sun can be intense on warm days.
Do not expect ladders. Today, most fruit orchards have dwarf trees, so ladders are not necessary. That being said, do not climb the trees! Today’s trees are planted and pruned so that all picking can be done with your feet on the ground.
Taste testing is fine, but… you are expected to purchase the fruit at the end. That is why many places now charge an entrance fee. Likewise, if you pick it, you buy it. Farmers cannot resell what you picked.
Take pictures! Document what fun you had. Show us the reddest cherry, the largest apple, the huge tomato.
Please clean up after yourself. There are usually trash cans available. If you bring it in, take it out. This is especially true if you bring a dog. Many places welcome leashed animals. But please be prepared to clean up after them.
Plan to make a day of it. Many farms have designated spots for picnicking. After you finish picking, enjoy the fruit you have purchased with your meal there. Along those same lines, bring a water bottle. Staying hydrated is always important.
If you have a question, ask! Do you want to know more about a variety? What is in season? What are generally accepted farming methods for that crop? You probably aren’t the first person to ask the question and growers want you to have the correct information.
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Would you prefer to experience fresh picked without the work? There are many farm stands and farmers markets open this time of year. The staff there are ready to answer many of your questions. If you still have some, let me know.
Take a drive and visit a you-pick operation. Many are listed on Cornell Cooperative Extension of Niagara County’s website and the NY Ag and Markets website. Or, search the web for the crop you’d like to pick near your home.