Late-season family-friendly U-picks that aren’t apples or pumpkins
Photo credit: Petite North Fork
We know, we know — 'tis the season for apple picking (our guide here) and oh-so-soon-to-be pumpkins, too! But today, we’re talking about other pick-your-own options for those of your petite crew who just want to “do it myself!” (We see you toddlers AND tweens.) Let’s get picking!
Figs at Sang Lee Farms, Peconic
Calling all fig lovers! Run, don’t walk, for the rare opportunity to pick figs! The fig orchard at Sang Lee Farms will be open through Friday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., for harvesting, with the possibility of extending into the weekend. The cost is $20/adult and includes one quart, and $10/child and includes one pint. Be sure to call in advance to confirm availability.
Flowers at Horton’s Flower Farm, Mattituck
Tucked off the beaten path, this idyllic u-pick flower farm offers rows and rows of seasonal blooms in every shade — vibrant to moody. While Horton’s Flower Farm is beginning to wind down for the season, there’s still some time to pick. Visit Horton’s Flower Farm on Saturdays and Sundays through September from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. During these final weekends, the farm is offering buy one u-pick bouquet, get one free. This applies to children and adult u-pick bouquets. (Editor’s note: Patty’s Berries and Bunches and The Gardens at Beds and Borders are also currently offering u-pick flowers.)
Peaches and more at Lewin Farm, Calverton
If you’re steadfast about holding onto summer, picking peaches is exactly how you should spend the season’s final days. Head to Lewin Farms in Calverton, where peaches are still available, but not for much longer! There is no cost for admission or orchard entry; pay per pound picked. Call to confirm peach availability, and while you’re there, see what else may still be available for u-pick: tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, and more! U-pick fields are open daily until 4:30 p.m., closed Tuesdays.
Raspberries (and flowers!) at Patty’s Berries and Bunches, Mattituck
This picturesque North Fork farm is still offering u-pick raspberries, and we’re delighted to hear it! The cost is $10/person to fill your container to the brim. While you may have to forage a bit, the calming walk down rows of berry bushes is well worth it, as are the rewarding raspberries themselves. Patty’s Berries and Bunches is also currently offering u-pick flowers from their own flower fields. Call for details and availability 631-655-7996. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Nectarines and more at Windy Acres Orchard and Farm, Calverton
If you’re searching for an easy one-stop spot to pick it all, Windy Acres is your place. Not only do they still have nectarines available for u-pick, they also still have peaches, berries, and of course, apples. And the best part, it’s a flat fee — $15/person on weekdays, and $18/person on weekends — to pick whatever can fit in your container that holds up to four pounds. Keep in mind that it includes more than 10 apple varieties, too! Open daily from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.