Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Strawberry Picking Strategy

Strawberries are a hot item. When I took over the farm in 2000, our business in June (strawberries dominate the month's sales) was about one third of our October pumpkin sales. Last year our June sales numbers equaled our October record pumpkin season.

Because of the huge demand, sometimes the fields can get hammered. Late in the day on a Saturday or Sunday it can be slim pickings. So, rather than getting mad a Farmer Don about quantities, you may want to map out a new picking strategy:

Consider week night picking, especially Thursday and Friday when the fields have had a chance to recover from the weekend. We stay open until sunset so there are often 3 - 4 hours of picking possible after work. The fields are often empty and the sunsets are beautiful.

Date night recommendation from Farmer Don.
Guys, are you struggling to find creative and fun new things to do on a date night? Are you tired of movies, dinner out or even bowling? How about surprising your date with a picnic of fabulous take out food (available anywhere), a bottle of wine (don't forget the corkscrew) and come out to the farm for romantic evening of picking strawberries until sunset.

Berry Update
This week's ripening looks encouraging. After a weekend of brisk sales, the fields are recovering and the weather looks potentially perfect for a monster harvest next weekend. I am excited about the potential here. Conditions look ideal.

Farmer Don

P.S. Don't forget to pick a peck of peonies. They will be in full bloom over the next two weeks.

4 comments:

Merci-Notes said...

What a wonderful plan for a "date night"... make that a repeating date night through the summers :)
I imagine some smart young man could work your "date night" into a very clever line for proposing marriage!

I wish you success in with your renewal and approval (weddings) from the city. How could anyone be against such a fine fine endeavor and wholesum fun!!!
We are in Chicago but wish we where at your farm.

With Kindness,
Mary
by way of:
Posie Gets Cozy blog :)

Sadkitty said...

I am confused, the farm site says open until 6pm. I am inclined to believe this here blog, which says open until sunset. Which is more correct?

Candylei said...

Hi, I found your blog through Alicia's blog. The beauty of links. We have a wee farm here out east and it's always interesting to read farming blogs. I'm going to have a look-see around your site. Thank you for taking the time to post.

Farmer Don said...

Emily,
The farm is open until sunset. Sorry for the confusion. We've corrected the website.

Thanks!

Farmer Don