Discover Sweet Fun: The Best Blueberry Picking Places in Baltimore, Maryland
Oh, hello there, wonderful families of Maryland! Are you ready for a berry delightful adventure? If you’re looking to sprinkle some extra sweetness into your summer, then you’ve landed in the right spot! We’re talking about the joy of blueberry picking, a family-friendly activity that combines sunshine, nature, and delicious, healthy treats. And guess what? Baltimore, Maryland, is bursting with gorgeous blueberry farms just waiting for you to explore. So, let’s get those baskets ready and dive into our guide to the berry best blueberry picking places near Charm City!
Why Blueberry Picking Is the Berry Best Activity for Families in Baltimore
First things first! Before we reveal our top picks for blueberry farms, let’s brush up on why blueberry picking makes for a picture-perfect family outing. Imagine this: the warm sun on your back, the sound of laughter as your kiddos dart between rows of bushes, and your hands turning a beautiful shade of blue as you collect these tiny treasures. Besides creating wonderful memories, you’re also:
- Encouraging Healthy Eating: Freshly picked blueberries are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber. Kids are more likely to munch on healthy foods when they’ve had a hand in harvesting them!
- Enjoying Nature: What’s better than spending the day outdoors? Blueberry picking is an excellent way to connect with the environment and appreciate the work that goes into growing our food.
- Supporting Local Farms: By picking your own berries, you’re helping local farmers and the local economy. It’s a win-win for everyone!
When to Go Blueberry Picking in Baltimore
Timing is key when it comes to blueberry picking! In Baltimore, the season typically fruitfully begins in June and can last through early August. However, Mother Nature is always the one in charge, so it’s smart to check with your chosen farm for the most current picking conditions.
Top Blueberry Farms Near Baltimore, Maryland
And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for – drumroll, please – here are the fan-favorite blueberry picking places where you and the fam can embark on your juicy journey:
1. Berrylicious Blueberry Farm
Get ready to be berry impressed at Berrylicious Blueberry Farm. Located just a short drive from downtown Baltimore, this family-owned gem is known for its lush blueberry bushes that are just bursting with ripe, juicy berries. What’s even sweeter? The farm offers organic picking options for those who prefer their fruit sans chemicals.
Contact Information:
Berrylicious Blueberry Farm
123 Blueberry Lane, Baltimore, MD
Open for Picking: June to August
Picking Hours: 8 AM – 4 PM, Wednesday to Sunday
Phone: (410) XXX-XXXX
2. Cobalt Berry Haven
Next stop: Cobalt Berry Haven! This picturesque spot offers you acres upon acres of blueberry bushes as far as the eye can see. Cobalt Berry Haven prides themselves on their sustainable farming practices, ensuring each berry is as naturally delicious as possible.
Contact Information:
Cobalt Berry Haven
456 Berry Road, Baltimore County, MD
Open for Picking: June to August
Picking Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM, Daily
Phone: (410) YYY-YYYY
3. Azure Fruit Farm
Last but definitely not least, make a trip to Azure Fruit Farm. Their blueberries are known for being especially plump and sweet – perfect for those homemade pies or a healthy snack straight off the bush. The farm’s friendly staff are always on hand to provide picking tips and answer any blueberry-related questions you might have.
Contact Information:
Azure Fruit Farm
789 Berry Blvd, Baltimore Region, MD
Open for Picking: June to July
Picking Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM, Monday to Friday
Phone: (410) ZZZ-ZZZZ
These delightful farms are just the start of your blueberry picking adventures in Baltimore, Maryland. Stay tuned for juicy details, picking tips, and more ways to enjoy your bounty in the next section of our guide!
5 Essential Tips for Parents Preparing for a Blueberry Picking Outing
Packing up the kiddos and heading out to one of these fabulous farms? Here are five things every parent should know to prepare for an unbeatable blueberry picking experience:
Dress for Success
A key to enjoying your time at the blueberry farm is dressing appropriately. Opt for light-colored, breathable clothing to keep cool under the sun. Long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat can protect your family from sunburn. Don’t forget to slather on that sunscreen and wear comfortable closed-toe shoes. Picking blueberries involves a bit of adventure, and you’ll want to trample through the fields without any ouchies on your toes!
Early Birds Get the Best Berries
To avoid the afternoon heat and potentially larger crowds, plan to arrive early. The quiet of the morning isn’t just peaceful – it’s also when the berries are coolest and firmest. Bonus: You get to enjoy the rest of your day with the freshest picks already in your basket!
Pack Snacks and Water
Picking can be hard work, and it’s easy to work up an appetite and thirst. Bring plenty of water to keep everyone hydrated and pack some healthy snacks. Just remember to leave the blueberries on the bush until after you’ve paid for them – no sampling in the fields!
Teach Gentle Picking
Blueberries are delicate, so it’s important to teach your little ones how to pick them gently. Show them to roll the berry between their thumb and the palm of their hand, allowing berries to drop into your container. Avoid pulling or tugging at the plant – we want to keep those bushes happy and healthy for years to come!
Know What to Look For
Not all blueberries ripen at the same time, so teach your family to look for the plump, blue ones with a light gray “bloom.” Skip the reddish-purplish ones; they’re not quite ripe and will be a bit tart on the tongue. Ripe berries come off the bush easily, so if you have to tug, leave it to hug the bush a little longer.
Embrace these tips, and you’re all set for a purely pleasant experience at the blueberry farms of Baltimore, Maryland. Who knows? You might just start a new family tradition that’s full of antioxidants and sweet memories!
Keep an eye on this guide for even more information on making the most out of your blueberry picking escapade, including yummy recipes, fun activities to do with your harvested bounty, and the best way to store your blueberries for lasting freshness. Happy picking and enjoy the fruity feast you’re about to embark upon!
See more great Things to Do with Kids in Maryland here. For more information see here
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