Welcome to the Sweet World of Strawberry Picking in Spokane!
Hey there, fun-loving families of Spokane! Are you ready to don your sun hats, slather on the sunscreen, and embark on a berry delightful adventure? Strawberry picking season is upon us, and what better way to relish the warm Washington weather than by visiting the sweetest spots around Spokane for some good old-fashioned strawberry picking!
The Berry Importance of Strawberry Picking
Picking strawberries is more than just a fun family outing; it’s an experience that engages all the senses and creates lasting memories. The feeling of the warm sun on your back, the sight of ruby-red strawberries nestled among the leaves, the taste of a freshly-plucked berry—it’s pure joy! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to teach your kids about where their food comes from and the importance of supporting local farms.
When to Go Berry Picking
Timing is berry important when it comes to strawberry picking in Spokane. Typically, the season runs from late May to early July, with the peak sweetness happening in June. Be sure to check with the local farms for their exact picking schedules, as Mother Nature loves to work in her own mysterious ways.
Strawberry Picking Checklist
Before you head out the door, let’s ensure you’ve packed all the essentials for a perfect day of picking:
- Comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting a little berry-stained
- Close-toed shoes for navigating the fields
- Containers for collecting your precious pickings (some farms provide these, so check ahead)
- Water bottles to stay hydrated in the field
- Sun protection – hats, sunscreen, and maybe an umbrella for shade
- A picnic blanket and snacks for a berry nice picnic
Tops Tips for Top-Notch Strawberry Picking
To ensure the fruit of your labor is the juiciest, follow these quick tips:
- Look for bright red strawberries – that’s when they’re ripest.
- Gently twist the berry by the stem; don’t pull on the fruit.
- Check under leaves for hidden strawberry treasures.
- Keep an eye out for any critters trying to get their own snack!
Fun Facts About Strawberries
Impress your little ones with these fun strawberry facts:
- Strawberries are the only fruit with seeds on the outside.
- There are about 200 seeds on an average strawberry. Wowza!
- Did you know that strawberries are a member of the rose family? Talk about berry romantic!
Spokane’s Premier Strawberry Picking Farms
Now that we’re prepped and ready, let’s dive into the heart of this guide – the best places around Spokane to gather your strawberry bounty:
5 Essential Preparation Tips for Strawberry Picking in Spokane
Picking strawberries is a delightful way to spend a summer day in Spokane, but a little preparation can make the day even sweeter. Here’s what you need to know:
- Research the Farms: Spokane is home to numerous family-run farms, but their opening times and offerings can differ. A little research helps you choose the farm that best matches your family’s needs. Don’t forget to check for updates on social media or call ahead as hours can vary based on weather and berry availability.
- Teach the Kids Before You Go: Children love learning through hands-on activities, and strawberry picking is no exception. Teach them how to spot ripe strawberries and pick them gently. It’s a great opportunity to talk about plant life cycles and healthy eating too!
- Dress Appropriately: Washington’s weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers and opt for clothes that can handle some strawberry juice. Remember your closed-toed shoes for comfort and protection in the fields.
- Bring Necessary Gear: Come prepared with buckets, containers, sun hats, sunblock, and water. While some farms sell or loan picking containers, having your own means one less stop before the fun begins!
- Plan for Post-Picking Activities: Often, the farms have picnic areas, petting zoos, or play spaces to extend the day’s adventure. Pack a lunch and plan to spend some time enjoying the farm’s other amenities.
Highlighting Spokane’s Strawberry Picking Spots
Grab your baskets, because we’ve rounded up the crème de la crème of Spokane’s strawberry farms – each with its own unique charm:
- Green Bluff Farms: A collective of farms where you can find strawberry varieties that are plump and sweet. Many farms offer additional attractions like homemade treats and country stores.
- Carver Farms: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Carver Farms offers a picturesque setting for picking, with ample opportunities for those perfect family photos.
- Walt’s Fruit & Produce: A hit for its pristine fields and high-quality strawberries. They take pride in their sustainable growing practices, making for a guilt-free picking experience.
- Sprout Farms Apple Orchards: Don’t let the name fool you – their strawberries are just as noteworthy as their apples! The kids will love the tractor rides, too.
- Beck’s Harvest House: Combine strawberry picking with a visit to the country store, where you can indulge in homemade pies and fudge after filling your baskets with berries.
Staying Safe and Sound in the Strawberry Fields
Your family’s safety is paramount, so here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Always follow the farm’s specific safety guidelines and instructions.
- Keep little ones close and explain the importance of staying in sight.
- It’s tempting, but try to limit the tasting in the field until you’ve had a chance to wash those berries at home.
- Pay attention to signs that indicate whether a particular area is off-limits or if pesticides have been recently applied.
- Last but not least, stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade to enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Maximizing Your Berry Picking Trip
With your baskets brimming with fresh strawberries, consider the endless possibilities to extend the joy:
- Convert your harvest into jams, pies, or freeze them for smoothies.
- Have a berry-themed day at home with strawberry-based recipes and crafts.
- Share your bounty with neighbors, friends, or a local shelter, spreading the sweetness far and wide.
Strawberry picking in Spokane is a tradition that’s sure to become a yearly highlight for your family. The farms of our region are not only places to harvest fruit but to create summertime memories that are as sweet as the berries themselves. The joy of picking strawberries with your loved ones, feeling the earth beneath your fingers, and savoring the taste of your hard work is an experience that can’t be beaten. May your adventures in Spokane’s strawberry fields be fruitful and filled with laughter.
See more great Things to Do with Kids in Washington here. For more information see here
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