Strawberry picking in New Brunswick is a memorable experience for both locals and visitors, highlighting the region's rich agricultural heritage and offering an abundance of fresh, juicy strawberries during the peak season. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know, from the best times to pick strawberries to the top picking spots and expert tips for a successful outing.
Sweet Escape
When is Strawberry Picking Season in NB?
The strawberry picking season in New Brunswick typically commences in late June or early July, depending on weather conditions and farm practices. If you're itching for a strawberry picking adventure, here are seven noteworthy places to indulge in this delightful activity:
7 Strawberry Picking Farms in New Brunswick to Visit
1. Walker's Strawberry Farm U-Pick
North of Sussex, Walker's Strawberry U-Pick offers an affordable and scrumptious family outing. Relish the joy of strawberry picking amidst the charming New Brunswick countryside ambiance, creating lasting memories.
2. Poirier Strawberry Farm
Located near Bouctouche, Poirier Strawberry Farm showcases a variety of berries with distinct flavours. Friendly staff guide visitors through sprawling fields that seem to stretch infinitely, ensuring a delightful strawberry picking adventure.
3. Gilbert Farm
Situated in Oromocto, Gilbert Farm presents an opportunity to feast on strawberries, with apple season, pumpkins, and more to follow. With exceptional fruit and affordable prices, it's an essential stop for satisfying your cravings and exploring diverse harvests.
4. Sunset U-pick
Sunset U-pick Ltd. in Fredericton offers quality strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries seasonally, with supervised fields for fresh picking. Customers bring containers, pay by weight, and are welcome to bring children with supervision.
5. Bates Landing
Bates Landing in Long Point is a roadside market providing fresh produce, u-Pick strawberries, raspberries, corn, pumpkins and apples. You'll also find ice cream, local crafts, and other conveniences, supporting the local community.
6. Hicks Berry Patch
Hicks Berry Patch near Sackville, NB offers a self-pick option for fresh strawberries or a convenient picking service, selling berries by the pound or quart box, with pre-ordering available for box purchases.
To make the most of your strawberry picking experience in New Brunswick, consider these expert tips:
To avoid missing the first harvest, it's advisable to call ahead or check the local farm's website for accurate and up-to-date information regarding opening dates and picking hours. And remember, don't forget to use the restroom before heading out to the fields!
Strawberry Picking Tips and Tricks
Timing is Key
Arrive early in the day to secure the freshest and highest quality berries, as morning temperatures help preserve flavour and texture.
Bring Suitable Containers
Carry clean containers to safely transport your hand-picked treasures. Inquire if the farm provides baskets or containers for picking, ensuring they have ample space to accommodate strawberries without damage.
Select with Care
Opt for fully red and ripe strawberries, avoiding mold or soft spots. Lift the leaves gently to examine the berries underneath and choose the juiciest ones.
Be Gentle
Handle strawberries delicately by the stem and twist them off the plant, avoiding harm to the plant or neighbouring berries. Refrain from pulling forcefully.
Stay Hydrated
Strawberry picking can be physically demanding, so stay hydrated by bringing along a bottle of water.
Protect Yourself from the Sun
Wear sunscreen, a hat, and light coloured, lightweight clothing when strawberry picking in New Brunswick.
Fun Fact About Strawberries
Strawberries Contain More Vitamin C than Oranges. You might think oranges have the most vitamin C, but strawberries actually have more! One large strawberry has 10.5 mg of vitamin C, while an orange has 70 mg.