Raleigh News & Observer
Planning on hitting your local pick-your-own berry patch? These hints come from the North Carolina Strawberry Association. The last one comes from us.
- Call before you go. Ripening of strawberries is dependent on the weather. Call to be sure that a good supply will be available and to get directions to the farm.
- Pick early or late in the day, when it is cool. Your strawberries will keep better and you'll enjoy yourself more. Wear a hat and sunblock.
- Dress small children in red or dark colors. Then you won't need to worry about the inevitable juice stains.
- Bring containers for your fruit, unless the farm specifies that containers are provided. Flat baskets and boxes are excellent, because fruit doesn't get piled too deep. Pails and buckets are easy to carry.
- Follow signs and directions and respect farm property.
- Please watch your children. Don't let them trample rows, climb on machinery or wander toward ponds or roads. Leave pets at home.
- Care for your fruit on the way home. Don't put your berries in the trunk of your car or leave them sitting in the car if it is sunny. Consider bringing an insulated cooler to carry them home.
- Watch your manners. Growers don't mind strawberry sampling. But sitting in the field, eating your fill and leaving without paying is more than sampling. Also, be sure to pick up your trash.
