Pick-Your-Own strawberry fields are in full swing across the state. Minnesota producers, especially in southern and central regions, are in the heart of the picking seasons and will be wrapping up within the next week or two.
Some northern berry farms, such as Ter-Lee Gardens, will open their season within the first week of July. Like many Minnesota Grown strawberry farms, Ter-Lee Gardens offers both pre-picked and pick-your-own berries. Katherine Brozek of Hilltop Harvest LLC in Redwood Falls offers some berry picking advice.
“Picking strawberries is a great family activity,” said Brozek. “Remember to dress comfortably for the weather and wear sunscreen.” Growers also recommend calling ahead or checking the Facebook page of your local strawberry farm for availability, hours of operation, and prime picking times.
Strawberries should be eaten within three days of picking for optimum freshness and washed just before consuming. For longer preservation, wash the berries, remove their stems, and freeze them in a single layer on a cookie sheet. After freezing, place the strawberries in Ziploc bags.
The Minnesota Grown directory includes 80 strawberry farms, 31 blueberry farms, and 41 summer raspberry farms, along with apple orchards, farmers markets, garden centers, and other places to buy directly from farmers. Search the directory by region or product to find a berry farm in your area. Order a free printed copy of the directory online or by calling 651-201-6469.