Five Things Parents Should Know Before Going Strawberry Picking in Tampa

Embarking on a strawberry picking excursion in Tampa is the kind of activity that childhood memories are made of. Before you set out for the strawberry fields, there are a few things savvy parents should keep in mind:

1. Dress Appropriately: Remember, you’ll be in the great outdoors! Wear comfy clothes and shoes that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. Florida can be warm, so light layers, hats, and sunscreen are a good idea to protect everyone from the sun. Don’t forget to bring water to stay hydrated.
2. Check Farm Calendars: It’s wise to check the farm’s social media pages or give them a quick call before you visit. Factors like weather can impact picking conditions and availability. Plus, some farms have special events or activities that you won’t want to miss!
3. Teach Gentle Picking: Show your little ones how to gently twist and pull the strawberries from their stems. It’s a great opportunity to teach them about where food comes from and how to harvest it without causing unnecessary harm to the plants.
4. Know Your Limits: Farms typically sell strawberries by the pound or by the flat. Make sure to pick what you can reasonably consume, unless you plan on gifting some berries or preserving them at home. Who doesn’t love homemade strawberry jam?
5. Plan for Fun: Many strawberry farms offer more than just picking. They might have playgrounds, petting zoos, hayrides, or picnic areas. Plan to spend a few extra hours at the farm to enjoy all that is available for a full day of family fun.

With these pro tips in mind, you’re all set to have a berry delightful day in the fields. Strawberries picked with love taste even sweeter, especially when they’re a product of such a fun-filled family day!

Top Strawberry Picking Spots in Tampa

Picking the perfect farm is part of the fun! Here are some of Tampa’s top strawberry picking havens, each offering a unique set of experiences beyond the joy of harvesting your own strawberries:

• Farm A: Located a short drive from downtown, this family-owned farm offers wagon rides and a country store. With fields as far as the eye can see, you’re in for a sweet picking session. They also offer organic options for those looking for pesticide-free produce!
• Farm B: This farm prides itself on creating a hands-on educational experience about agriculture. Along with picking, they offer crafting sessions with natural materials and a small farmer’s market to enjoy other local goods.
• Farm C: Want a picturesque day? Farm C not only has luscious strawberry fields but also boasts beautiful gardens for a scenic stroll. Their on-site café serves up strawberry-themed treats that are as delicious as they are Insta-worthy.
• Farm D: A hit with the kids, this farm features play areas and live music on the weekends. Their berry picking is paired with educational tours that help families understand the farm-to-table process.
• Farm E: If you’re a fan of early mornings, Farm E opens at dawn for those who like to beat the heat. They also have special berry-buckets designed for kids, so little arms can carry their load with ease.

Strawberry Picking Etiquette and Tips

Before venturing out into the sea of red berries, read through these quick etiquette and picking tips to ensure that everyone, including the farm staff and other berry-enthusiasts, have a great time:

• Make sure to only pick ripe strawberries; look for a full red color without green or white areas.
• If you’re unsure about which areas you can pick from, always ask a farm employee for guidance.
• Be mindful of the plants and avoid stepping on them. Explain to children that plants are living things we must treat with care.
• If you decide not to pick a berry, do not throw it on the ground, as it can attract pests or cause waste.
• After your picking spree, check out and thank the farm staff for maintaining such a wonderful berry picking environment.

Sticking to these guidelines will ensure your family and others can continue enjoying the experience of strawberry picking for seasons to come.

Preserving Your Picked Strawberries

Once you’ve returned from your fruitful adventure, it’s time to think about preserving your harvest. Strawberries can be enjoyed fresh, frozen for smoothies, baked into delectable desserts, or even turned into jams and preserves. Involving the kids in this post-picking process can be just as fun as the picking itself!