U Pick, I Pick, We All Pick… Strawberries: Find Out Where You Can Get Your Berry On
by GRACE HIRDES
This is the time of the year when we head to the fields to get some fresh air and pick our own strawberries by the buckets. If you are looking for someplace nearby to pick some strawberries this season, we’ve listed some options below. Find a location near you and enjoy the ripest strawberries around!
Lake Buffum Farms in Fort Meade
3875 Lake Buffum Rd. W., Fort Meade
863-559-7687
They are known for their homemade breads, ice cream, and other goodies. They are open for u-pick, but be sure to call in advance to see if they are open on the day you plan to go. Follow them on facebook for more updates.
Keel & Curley Winery + Keel Farms in Plant City
5210 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City
813-752-9100
Located in Plant City, Keel & Curley Winery has been producing some of Florida’s most popular wine since 2003. They offer tours, tastings, dining, events, farm activities, and a variety of special events and u-pick seasons, including a strawberry u-pick. Even though they are open year-round, the strawberry fields are only open at select times, so be sure to check the website or Facebook for upcoming events before you head to the field.
Berry Sweet Acres in Plant City
5621 W US Highway 92, Plant City
813-431-8012
Also in Plant City, Berry Sweet Acres is a family-owned business with local ties and decades of experience growing strawberries. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended, especially on weekends. Reservations will be honored first, so be sure to call and get your name on the list.
Tomlin FFA Produce Stand in Plant City
Corner of U.S. 92 and Edwards in the Tomlin Middle School Ag Field, Plant City
The Tomlin Middle School FFA program offers u-pick strawberries as well as a produce stand. They are not open daily, though, so be sure to check Facebook for the days they are open.
Fancy Farms Market + U-Pick Strawberries in Lakeland/ Plant City
5204 Drane Field Rd., Lakeland
813-478-3486
The Fancy Farms Market is on the corner of Drane Field Road and County Line Road between Lakeland and Plant City. The market includes fresh produce, fruit desserts, strawberry milkshakes, and other goods. Their strawberry u-pick is open seasonally in February and March. Check Facebook for dates and locations
Spivey Farms in Plant City
6101 South County Road 39, Plant City
813-650-8999
This farm doesn’t open for u-pick until the end of the commercial season; this year they open April 3. It costs $1 per quart (cash only), and they provide the quart cups to pick in the fields, but you need to bring containers to take your strawberries home in.
Make sure to wear sun protection and closed-toe shoes when you go, and most importantly, be respectful of the farm and treat the plants well as you pick.