The start of strawberry season in the Pacific Northwest is a much-anticipated event. After a long winter, people are eager to get their hands on the first fresh, local strawberries of the season. If you're looking for the sweetest, ripest berries you can find, nothing beats picking strawberries yourself.
Strawberry farms across the region open their doors to the public, and people flock to pick their own berries. It's a great way to get some exercise, fresh air, and sunshine. It's also a fun way to spend time with family and friends, and an especially good way to pass time when kids are on summer break.
If you're planning a "U-Pick" strawberry day this season, this is the ultimate guide to the Great Seattle region's strawberry farms and all you need to know before heading out.
Outline:
I. Why Pick Your Own Strawberries?
Strawberry picking is a fun and rewarding activity for people of all ages. It's a great way to get some exercise, fresh air, and sunshine, and to spend time with family and friends. Strawberries are also a delicious and nutritious fruit, so picking your own is a great way to get the freshest, most flavorful strawberries possible.
Here are a few reasons why you should go strawberry picking:
Freshness: Strawberries picked fresh from the vine are much more flavorful than those that have been picked and shipped long distances.
Affordability: Picking your own strawberries can save you money on produce, as you don't have to pay for the labor costs involved in picking, packing, and shipping.
Fun: Strawberry picking is a fun activity for the whole family. It's a great way to get some exercise, fresh air, and sunshine, and to spend time together outdoors.
Learning opportunity: Strawberry picking can be a great learning opportunity for children. They can learn about where their food comes from, how it's grown, and how to pick it.
Supporting local farmers: Strawberry picking is a great way to support local farmers. When you pick your own strawberries, you're helping to keep our local economy strong.
II. Best Time to Visit U-Pick Strawberry Farms
The best time to go strawberry picking in the Pacific Northwest is from June to July. During this time, the strawberries are at their peak ripeness and flavor. You'll be outside to pick the strawberries, so check the weather in advance and plan accordingly
The weather can also impact the strawberry growing season. For example, a cold spring can delay the start of the season, and a hot summer can shorten the season. Here are some of the ways that the weather in the Pacific Northwest impacts strawberry growing season:
Temperature: Strawberries need warm temperatures to grow. A cold spring can delay the start of the season, and a cold snap during the growing season can damage the plants.
Rainfall: Strawberries need regular rainfall to grow. A drought can stress the plants and reduce yields.
Sunlight: Strawberries need at least six hours of sunlight per day to grow. Too much shade can reduce yields.
For the most accurate information on when to visit a specific U-Pick strawberry farm and insights into harvest conditions, it's best to call the farm or visit their website.
III. Where to Pick Strawberries Near Seattle: Top Farms
If you're looking for the best u-pick strawberry farms near Seattle, discover these hidden gems. Each farm is within a few hours of Downtown Seattle and easily accessible by car. In no particular order, here are the top farms and where to pick strawberries in Seattle.
Biringer Farm
Biringer Farm is a family-owned and operated farm in Arlington that has been growing strawberries for over 80 years. The farm offers u-pick strawberries from June to July, and lists current seasonal fruit offerings on their website's home page. The Farm offers a variety of activities, including u-pick strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, tayberries, and blackcaps. In addition to u-pick berries, Biringer Farm also offers a variety of other activities. The farm has a petting zoo with animals such as goats, pigs, and chickens. There is also a hayride that takes visitors around the farm. Biringer Farm also has a farm market that sells fresh produce, baked goods, and other farm-related items.
Address: 21412 59th Ave NE, Arlington, WA 98223
Phone number: (425) 259-0255
Website: https://www.biringerfarm.com/
Remlinger Farms
Remlinger Farms is a popular spot for u-pick strawberries in Carnation. The farm also has a petting zoo, a train ride, and other activities for families. The farm has been in operation since 1965, and it's now a popular destination for families and groups. Remlinger Farms offers a variety of activities, including u-pick strawberries, a petting zoo, a train ride, and a restaurant.
Address: 14223 NE 175th St, Carnation, WA 98014
Phone number: (425) 333-4135
Website: https://remlingerfarms.com/
Harvold Berry Farm
This small, family-owned farm in Carnation offers u-pick strawberries from June to July. Harvold Berry Farm is a family-owned and operated farm offering a variety of activities, including u-pick strawberries, raspberries, sweet corn, and pumpkins. Harvold Berry Farm also has a farm market that sells fresh produce, baked goods, and other farm-related items.
Address: 5207 Carnation Duvall Rd NE, Carnation, WA 98014
Phone number: (425) 298-5125
Website: https://harvoldberryfarm.wixsite.com/harvoldberryfarm
Swan's Trail Farm
This Snohomish farm offers u-pick strawberries from June to July, and also operates a bakery and a cafe. Swan's Trail Farm has been running since 1984 and today offers a variety of activities, including u-pick strawberries, raspberries, apples, and pumpkins. The farm has over 10 acres of strawberry fields, 2 acres of raspberry fields, 5 acres of apple orchards, and 2 acres of pumpkin patches. Swan's Trail Farm has a petting zoo with animals such as goats, pigs, and chickens. They even host an annual "Baby Animals & Berries Festival." There is also a playground, a corn maze, and a train ride that takes visitors around the farm.
Address: 18515 164th St SE, Snohomish, WA 98290
Phone number: (425) 397-6141
Website: https://www.swanstrailfarms.com/
Bailey Family Farm
Bailey Family Farm is a farm in Snohomish that offers u-pick strawberries, as well as a petting zoo and a playground. Bailey Family Farm is a fifth-generation family farm that has been in operation since 1912. Today the farm offers a variety of activities, including u-pick strawberries, raspberries, vegetables, and pumpkins. he farm has over 10 acres of strawberry fields, 2 acres of raspberry fields, 5 acres of vegetable fields, and 2 acres of pumpkin patches. Bailey Family Farm's on site farm market sells fresh produce, baked goods, and other farm-related items.
Address: 12691 Springhetti Road, Snohomish, WA 98296
Phone number: (360) 568-8826
Website: https://www.baileyveg.com/
IV. What to Expect at U-Pick Strawberry Farms
Before you head out, you'll want to check the weather and ensure you're properly dressed for the forecast. Choose comfortable, closed-toe shoes that you don't mind getting dirty, or even boots if you have them. You may also want to pack a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Most farms have containers such as buckets or pails that you can use to collect strawberries as you pick them, but you're welcome to bring your own container (just be sure to have it weighed before you begin picking).
Most farms have ample parking, however parking may be limited at peak hours on the weekends. After you've parked, head to the check-in stand to learn about the farm, which areas are off limits for picking, and to get a container to store your fruit as you pick. If you brought your own container, the host will want to weigh your container before you begin picking.
After you're picked enough strawberries, you will need to pay for your strawberries by weight. The weight of your strawberries will be determined by the farmer when you check out.
V. Tips for a Successful U-Pick Strawberry Farm Visit
Check the strawberry picking season before you go. The strawberry picking season in Washington usually starts in June and ends in July, but can be delayed by weather.
Choose a strawberry farm. There are many strawberry farms in Washington, so take some time to choose one that is convenient for you and that has good reviews.
Call ahead to the farm to check on availability and pricing. Some farms may have limited availability, and prices may vary depending on the time of year.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing. You will be doing a lot of walking, so it is important to wear comfortable shoes and clothing.
Bring a hat and sunscreen. It can be sunny and hot on the farm, so it is important to protect yourself from the sun.
Bring a basket or bucket. You will need a container to hold your strawberries.
Be prepared to get dirty. Strawberries are messy fruit, so be prepared to get dirty.
Have fun! Strawberry picking is a great way to spend a day with family and friends.
VI. Beyond Strawberries: Additional Activities at U-Pick Farms
Many strawberry farms offer additional activities such as petting zoos, farm markets, or picnic areas to participate in before or after your pick. Make the most of your visit by participating in these extra experiences while you're on the farm. For example, here are some common activities farms in our region offer in addition to strawberry picking:
Visit the farm market: Most u-pick strawberry farms have farm markets where you can buy fresh produce, baked goods, and other farm-related items.
Take a hayride: This is more common during the Autumn harvest, but occasionally a u-pick strawberry farm will offer hayrides that take you around the farm during strawberry season. This is a great way to see the farm and learn about how strawberries are grown.
Go for a walk or short hike: Walking around the farm is a great way to get some exercise and enjoy the outdoors.
Have a picnic: All u-pick strawberry farms have picnic areas, grassy fields, or tables where you can enjoy a meal or snack. This is a great way to relax and enjoy the company of your family and friends.
Play games: Many u-pick strawberry farms have games that you can play, such as cornhole, bocce ball, or horseshoes.
Pet the animals: Some u-pick strawberry farms have animals, such as goats, pigs, and chickens.
Take a class: While less common in our region, some u-pick strawberry farms offer classes on topics such as gardening, cooking, or canning. This is a great way to learn new skills and meet new people.
VII. Support Local: The Importance of U-Pick Strawberry Farms
U-pick strawberry farms are a great way to support your local economy and get fresh, delicious strawberries. When you pick your own strawberries, you are directly supporting the farmers who grow them. This helps to keep money in the local community and ensures that there will be a continued supply of fresh, local produce in the future. Small, local farms are also often more sustainable than large-scale agricultural operations, as they use less water, pesticides, and other resources.
VIII. What to Do With Fresh Strawberries
Freshly picked strawberries are delicious and versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are a few ideas:
Eat them fresh: Fresh strawberries are simply delicious on their own. Just wash them and enjoy!
Strawberry shortcake: Strawberry shortcake is a classic dessert made with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and shortcake biscuits. Learn how local Chef Tom Douglas prepares strawberry shortcake with this video.
Strawberry jam: Strawberry jam is a delicious way to preserve fresh strawberries for later.
Strawberry smoothies: Strawberry smoothies are a quick and easy way to enjoy fresh strawberries.
Strawberry cocktails: Strawberry cocktails are a fun and refreshing way to enjoy fresh strawberries.
No matter how you choose to use them, freshly picked strawberries are a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the season.
Before you enjoy, here are some additional tips for preparing and cleaning freshly picked strawberries:
Wash them gently: Strawberries are delicate fruit, so it is important to wash them gently. Rinse them under cool water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
Remove the caps: The caps of strawberries are edible, but they can be tough. If you prefer, you can remove the caps with a paring knife.
Store them properly: Fresh strawberries should be stored in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days.
IX. Conclusion
U-pick farms offer a unique experience that you simply can't get from buying strawberries at a grocery store. It's a great way to get hands-on with your food and learn about where it comes from, direct from the source. Perhaps most importantly, you'll be amazed by the quality and flavor of freshly picked strawberries compared to what you typically find at the grocery store.
These farms are a great way to support our regional economy, get fresh, delicious strawberries, and have a fun and educational experience. So next time you're looking for a delicious and rewarding way to spend a day, be sure to visit a u-pick strawberry farm near you.
X. Frequently Asked Questions:
What are the best strawberry picking farms near Seattle?
Some local strawberry picking farms near Seattle include Biringer Farms, Remlinger Farms, Harvold Berry Farm, Swan's Trail Farm, and Bailey Family Farm.
When is the best time to go strawberry picking?
Strawberries are typically in season from June to July.
How much does it cost to go strawberry picking?
The price of strawberry picking varies depending on the farm and the time of year, but all farms charge by weight. Farms may change their prices periodically, so it's best to call the farm to get accurate pricing.
What should I wear when going strawberry picking?
It is a good idea to wear comfortable shoes and clothes when going strawberry picking. Check the weather forecast before visiting to plan your attire accordingly. If it has rained recently, consider wearing boots as the fields may be muddy.
What should I bring when going strawberry picking?
You may want to bring a hat, sunscreen, and water bottle with you. All farms offer a basket or pail to collect strawberries, but you're often welcome to bring your own if desired, just be sure to have it weighed by farm staff upon arrival.
Are u-pick farms pet friendly?
Most u-pick farms are not pet friendly, and it is recommended that you do not bring your pets as you should never leave your pet in a hot car.
What are some tips for picking strawberries?
When picking strawberries, look for berries that are bright red and plump.
What are some recipes I can make with strawberries?
You can eat strawberries fresh, or use them in pies, cakes, or other desserts.