With supermarkets on every corner, the ability to order groceries and have them delivered with the click of a button and local farmer's markets there are plenty of ways to purchase fruits and vegetables; but only one way to get them the freshest way possible. Some farms allow visitors to hand-pick their own fresh fruits and vegetables which is often more affordable than your corner market's price and in larger quantities!

This offers direct marketing for the farmers to save on labor and shipping costs while offering consumers the freshest produce at the lowest prices. Popular U-Pick farms, as they are coined, include blueberries, strawberries, grapes, peaches, citrus, sweet corn and tomatoes. At times you can even pick onions, potatoes, chestnuts, star fruit and avocados at certain times. Here is a list of local U-Pick Farms in the 813area for your fresh produce needs!

Hydro Harvest Farms

A year-round U-Pick farm near Tampa, Hydro Harvest Farms is your one-stop shop for fresh fruits and veggies, local honey and canned goodies every day. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, the farm is open 10-5 Wednesday through Saturday and 11-4 on Sundays. They also offer free hydroponic growing classes to finally get you started on your new garden! This location is also wheelchair accessible. 
 

Bob's Berries

A new U-Pick farm that opened in April of 2018, Bob's Berries specializes in blueberries, but will soon have thornless blackberries and a variety of other fruit-bearing trees such as passion fruit, bananas, strawberries and herbs. Plants and trees are also for sale including jams, ice creams and merchandise at the general store.
 

Spivey Farms

Spivey Farms offers farm fresh strawberries for U-Pick strawberries in-season, with two quarts for $1 cash only! The season varies, but usually begins in March. "Strawberry" onions are also for sale to the general public and pricing varies on size and shape.

Berry Bay Farms

U-Pick strawberries are available every strawberry season, however Berry Bay also offers pick your own flowers! Zinnias are $0.50 each or $5.00 a dozen, large sunflowers are $1.00 each and small sunflowers are $0.50 each. Always remember to bring your own container. and follow their website for more information about the spring U-Pick season and products.
 

Favorite Farms, Inc.

A commercial strawberry farm in Dover, FL that offers U-Pick during the strawberry season. Follow their Facebook for updates on when U-Pick resumes next Spring! 

Wish Farms

Featuring two locations in Lithia and Duette, Florida, Lyna Berry Farms offers a blueberry U-Pick open to the public for most Florida seasons. 
 
 

The Southern Peach Company

The Southern Peach Company offers U-Pick sweet peaches while supplies last with prices varying from $12 per bucket or $20 for two buckets. Follow their Facebook page for information on picking sessions.

Parke Family Hydro Farms

This hydroponic and insecticide/pesticide free farm is owned and operated by Parkesdale Farms and Parkesdale Farm Market. They offer U-Pick strawberries and onions during strawberry season.

 
U-Pick farms in Tampa are a fun and friendly way to pick your family's produce as well as an exciting activity for the kids and the entire family come spring time. Most farms also have a general market with fruit, vegetables, honey and more at affordable prices. Always check your local farm's website for schedules, cancellations and season openings for U-picking as times are always subject to change due to weather.
 
U-Pick Farms are a fun way to spend a weekend morning, but don't forget to check out other local happenings to complete your day! And as always, you can stay updated on this article and other things to do in the 813area by signing up the website. It's free! 
 
Photo Courtesy of Spivey Farms Facebook.