Sum Picking Information

Tips

Honeyberry ( Haskap ) Picking Tips

They come in many shapes and sizes but they all share the same ripeing profile, after they turn blue(early to mid may thru mid june in missouri) it may take 15 + days for all the sugars to fully develop, we have found that if you run your fingers under the berry and they fall off into your hand they tend to be of the best quality. These berries are tucked under the leaves on the end of last years growth, making it harder for the birds and you to see them(better hail protection also).

Blueberry Picking Tips

• Unripe berries will not ripen further after harvest, so avoid the unripe ones to get those sweet Dark soft berries that you are looking for!

• Blueberries grow in clusters and not all the berries ripen at the same time. One cluster may have ripe fruit, unripe fruit and green fruit. So take your time when picking!

• Blueberries begin to turn colors before they are fully ripe. A berry may start to look ripe, but if you turn it over and the stem end is still redish or green, it is far from ripe and still has a few days to go. A fully ripe blueberry is deep blue, even near the stem..

Blackberry Picking Tips

A blackberry is ripe when it is deep black with a plump, full feel. It will pull free from the plant with only a slight tug. If the berry is red or purple it's not ripe yet.

Blackberries may be kept fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week, sometimes longer depending upon the initial quality of the berry. Use as fast as you can because After a few days in storage the fruit loses its bright color and fresh flavor and tends to shrivel and may mold.

Lets make your quick outdoor visit or overnight camping fun

Additional Farm Information

A Trip to Our U Pick family farm can be a very fun and enjoyable time with your family and memorable experience on your farm visit if you plan ahead. As always,PLEASE be aware of your surroundings and what you and your kids are doing, we are in the country were animals, snakes and bugs live, and at some times of the year our ponds will have water also. Try to dress so that you will be comfortable outside, loose-fitting clothes that are a lighter color will help you stay cooler in the warmer months. A few other things to consider bringing : Sturdy shoes, Large hat, Picnic lunch,{ Sun block, bug spray ( PLEASE wash hands after applying and before fruit picking) }. And be sure to drink plenty of fluids before your outing or overnight stay. Picking buckets (small ones for the kids) and take home bags for your blueberries are provided. Pint and Quart containers for the Blackberries, Goji, Cherries, Honeyberries are also provided. ALL Containers will be next to the check out shed. EVERYONE will need to wash their hands at one of the washing stations before picking in the field to limit the spread of germs and possible plant diseases from other farms.

We have 10 campsite areas for you to enjoy, PLEASE put all trash in the trash cans provided and leave the area the way you found it. Some Campsites may be provided 5 gallon buckets full of water in case of an out of control fire. Hydrants will have more buckets if needed. THANK YOU. And other refreshments and snacks will be sold where you check out .

Please don't pull on drip hoses or move them. And PLEASE try to not walk in between the plants. PLEASE Try not to harm any of the plants. And we would love your help, if you see any damage PLEASE let us know so we can address the problem THANK YOU SO MUCH for your help and kindness.