2024 Phoenix and Surrounding Counties in Arizona Cucumber U-Pick Farms and Orchards - PickYourOwn.org

Cucumber U-Pick Orchards in Phoenix and Surrounding Counties in Arizona in 2024, by county

Below are the U-Pick orchards and farms for cucumbers that we know of in this area. Not all areas of any state, nor even every state, have cucumbers orchards that are open to the public. If you know of any others, please tell us using the add a farm form!

Remember to always check with the farm's own website or Facebook page before you go - or call or email them if they don't have a website or Facebook page. Conditions at the farms and crops can change literally overnight, so if you want to avoid a wasted trip out there - check with the farm directly before you go! If I cannot reach them, I DON'T GO!

PLEASE report closed farms, broken links and incorrect info using the "Report Corrections" form below.

Maricopa County

• Tolmachoff Farms - carrots, cucumbers, eggplant, Fresh eggs
  5726 N 75th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85303. Phone: 602-999-3276. Email: tolmachoff1farms@yahoo.com. Open: Month of June ONLY on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 8 am until 12:00 noon; Summer Season produce stand will be open from mid May through mid July from 9 am till 5 pm daily. Directions: 75th Avenue between Bethany Home and Camelback. For a map to our farm, . Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Visa, MasterCard. . U-Pick It Time at! four generation family owned and operated farm will be hosting the u-pick garden this June. Pick a variety of fresh produce and take it straight from our farm to your table and enjoy! U-Pick It during the month of June (ONLY). Produce Stand Information Summer season produce stand will be open from mid May - mid July, 9 am to 5 pm every day. (UPDATED: April 14, 2018, JBS) (UPDATED: March 22, 2016) IMPORTANT NOTE: CALL BEFORE YOU GO TO VERIFY THAT THE VEGETABLES YOU WANT TO PICK ARE AVAILABLE AS UPICK.from visitors:
  Comments from a visitor on June 29, 2012: "Just thought I would update your comments section on this wonderful farm. Tomatoes are still "on" and are so good! Still just 2.00 per pound. Their corn is picked every day and sooooo delicious. Originally from Iowa I think the tomatoes are every bit as good. And corn just has to be cooked the day it is picked!!!!!!! I stopped even trying to grow my own. I visit 2 per week and have been feasting on the produce! "
  Comments from a visitor on November 11, 2010: "I was reading all the good feedback on the farm and thought I would let you know I have been there several times. I have taken Bus loads of little ones from the School Districts to see the farm. They all have such a great time when they are there. If not for this farm I don`t think a majority of the kids would ever see farm animals up close or pick vegetables right out of the garden. They are all so cute when they get on the Bus to go home with their little bags of vegetables and small pint sized pumpkins. They really enjoy themselves when they are there. And some of the Teacher`s I have heard them talk about when they were kids and on their grand parents farm how coming to Tolmachoff`s Farm has brought back memories. I think it is great what they do for the kids. I enjoy getting the field trips myself. I love going to the Farm. Thanks Tolmcchoff`s for All you do. Hope to see you soon."
  Comments from a visitor on June 26, 2010: "Tomatoes this year at are especially good. Phoenix, AZ spring weather was milder than usual and thus was kinder than normal to their tomatoes. Big ole beefsteaks like my Grandma used to grow in Kansas. I especially like their heirloom brandywines. They say they should have tomatoes into July this season and I have to wait another week for cantaloupe. Tomatoes this year are $2 a pound and well worth it. Growing tomatoes in our dry hot climate is a monumental challenge and Tolmachoff pulls it off year after year. Special Note: Arizona tomatoes are different than those grown in the Midwest or Jersey. The culprit is the soil and the heat here. But biting into a big juicy meaty tomato makes up for the taste difference. I have been in Phoenix since 1974 and a customer of Tolmachoff since I found them on yet another quest to find a good tomato. Enjoy"
  Comments from a visitor on September 14, 2008: "we love, when their sweet corn and vineripe tomatoes are in season they are the best in this state. we cannot wait for this pumpkin season its so much fun."
  Comments from a visitor on September 05, 2008: "I have been a customer of for many years!! Every year seems to get better and better! My children have such a terrific time when we have visited!! From the petting zoo, to the train ride and the wonderful vegetable garden and large assortment of pumpkins, YOU just couldn't ask for more!!!!!!! The employees have always been courteous and very helpful when it comes to providing us with information about the farm or any general questions we have had. They are very professional. The best time to visit the farm is in October when they have so many fun activities!!! The haunted corn maze its definitely our favorite, not to mention a low admission cost which is also a great deal!! A lot of the other haunted mazes in town can be twice as much if not more!!!!! Definitely would recommend this farm experience to any family wanting to have some good fun for a great price!! You can tell this is a real FAMILY RUN farm, it definitely shows!!! "
  Comments from a visitor on September 04, 2008: "I just read some of the comments on your site and I wanted to let you know that we have gone to the farm for many years and enjoy everything they have to offer and everyone is so friendly. They offer activities for children of all ages, we have many great memories of the farm. Each year they add more & more we will continue to go every year, our 4 year old son would not come out of the corn box "what a blast". We are looking forward to this up coming season. Sincerly, Cindy"
  Comments from a visitor on February 1, 2008: "I also visited in October, during the fall festival. I didn't find the entrance fee unreasonable or any employees rude, and we had a blast! Especially our 8 year old daughter. The farm had a petting zoo, bounce houses, 2 corn mazes, a kid's 'train' ride, a tricycle racing area, and some kids playground equipment. The pumpkins were a little expensive, but the rest of the goods in the market were reasonable. We bought preserves, apple butter, and one big pumpkin."Has anyone else got any experiences to share, positive or negative? Write me! It sounds like people have fun there, just call first to confirm that what you want is available and that you are ok with the pricing.

Yavapai County

• Mortimer Farms - Uses natural growing practices, beans, beets, carrots, corn (sweet), cucumbers, eggplant, flowers, horseradish, herbs or spices, melons, onions, peas, peppers, pumpkins, rhubarb, summer squash, winter squash, strawberries, tomatoes, other vegetables, watermelons, Turkeys (organic, not-hormone-fed), Fresh eggs, Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), gift shop, porta-potties are available, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, jumping pillow, ziplines, train rides (train on a track), trike track, pedal kart track, mining for gems, petting zoo, farm animals, birthday parties, weddings and wedding parties, school tours, group reservations, events at your location (call for info)
  12907 East State Route 169, Dewey, AZ 86327. Phone: (928) 830-1116. Email: Mortimerfarmsaz@gmail.com. Open: Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Directions: On the corner of 169 and 69 in Dewey, Arizona. From Phoenix: I-17 to Cortez Junction. Turn North on Highway 69. Drive 10 Miles to farm on Right. . Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa, MasterCard, Discover.
  Mortimer Farms Facebook page. . . Picking updates: Click here for picking updates. Farm Market Open Daily 8 to 6 Pumpkin Festival Open Friday 5 pm to 10, Saturday 10 to 10, Sunday 10 to 5 and Halloween Day 5 pm to 10. We use natural practices, but are not yet certified Organic., a popular Prescott area attraction, bringing back the rich farming history of the Dewey-Humboldt Area. Made famous by our summer sweet corn, annual harvest party, annual pumpkin festival and Christmas Tree Village plus the brand new Farm Park! We also grow a variety seasonal vegetables, strawberries and raise fabulous meat. All in which is available in our Country Store. We grow all the ingredients of a specially blended Arizona feed ration. This specially blended feed has all the vitamins and minerals needed to raise and produce fabulous meat including our amazing turkey, pork, Black Angus Beef, and chicken. Join us for the Harvest Party and our Pumpkin and Corn Maze Festival! Don't miss all of the family friendly festival activities and terrific food we have in store fort your group this season! Plan your trip today

 

How to pick cucumbers

When it comes to selecting cucumbers at a farm, there are a few key tips to keep in mind to ensure you choose the best ones. Here are two to three paragraphs of guidance to help you make the right selection:

1. Look for firmness and texture: The first thing you should check is the firmness and texture of the cucumber. Gently squeeze the cucumber to determine its firmness. A good cucumber should feel firm but not rock-hard. Avoid cucumbers that are overly soft or mushy, as these are signs of deterioration. Additionally, examine the skin texture. It should be smooth and shiny, without any wrinkles or blemishes. A uniformly colored skin is also an indicator of a fresh cucumber .The top cucumber in the photo is an overripe pickling cucumber.  The bottom cucumber is perfect!

2. Smaller size is better: Cucumbers come in various sizes and shapes, so it ultimately depends on your personal preference. However, there are a few general guidelines to follow.
Choose slicing cucumbers that are about 6 to 8 inches long, as they tend to have a better flavor and texture.
Burpless cucumbers may be much longer . Pickling cucumbers should be smaller, like 4 to 5 inches.
Avoid extremely large cucumbers, as they can be tough and have large seeds. In terms of shape, look for cucumbers that are straight and cylindrical. Avoid ones that are excessively curved or have bulges, as they may have developed irregularities during growth.

3. Look for dark color and freshness: The color of the cucumber can provide valuable information about its freshness. Ideally, cucumbers should have a vibrant green color, indicating that they are ripe and freshly harvested. Avoid cucumbers that have a dull or yellowish color, (like the top cucumber in the photo) as this could be a sign of overripeness or age. Additionally, check the stem end of the cucumber. It should be fresh-looking and not shriveled or dried out. A fresh cucumber will have a crisp snap when broken, while a stale one may feel limp or bend without resistance.

Cucumber Varieties

There are many types of cucumbers so it is important to select the  right type for your purpose.

1. Pickling Cucumbers: Pickling cucumbers are specifically cultivated for making pickles. They are smaller in size, have a firm texture, and a slightly bumpy or knobby skin. Pickling cucumbers often have a more concentrated flavor, making them ideal for preserving in brine or vinegar. Gherkins are simply very small (1.5 to 2.5 inch long immature pickling cucumbers.

2. Slicing Cucumbers: Slicing cucumbers are the most common type of cucumber found in grocery stores. They are typically larger than pickling cucumbers and have a smooth, dark green skin. Slicing cucumbers are great for fresh eating and are often used in salads, sandwiches, or as a refreshing snack.

3.Burpless, English or European Cucumbers: English cucumbers are longer and thinner than slicing cucumbers. They have a mild, crisp taste and a thin, tender skin that does not require peeling. These cucumbers are often referred to as "burpless" due to their reputation for being less likely to cause indigestion or gas.

4. Persian Cucumbers: Persian cucumbers are similar to English cucumbers but slightly shorter and thicker. They have a sweet and crunchy flesh, and their skin is thin and edible. Persian cucumbers are popular in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine and are great for salads or as a healthy snack.

5. Lemon Cucumbers: Lemon cucumbers are small, round cucumbers that resemble lemons in shape and color. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a thin, tender skin. Lemon cucumbers are often eaten fresh, added to salads, or pickled.

6. Armenian Cucumbers: Armenian cucumbers, also known as snake cucumbers or yard-long cucumbers, are long and slender with a twisted or curved shape. They have a thin, pale green skin and a crisp texture. Armenian cucumbers are often used in salads, sandwiches, or pickled.

7. Kirby Cucumbers: Kirby cucumbers are small, bumpy cucumbers that are popular for pickling due to their firmness and crunchy texture. They have a slightly bitter taste and are known for their ability to retain their shape and crunchiness during the pickling process.

These are just a few examples of cucumber types and varieties. Each has its own unique characteristics, so you can choose the one that best suits your culinary needs and preferences.

Pickling Cucumbers  (in water bath canners )

Cucumbers are not acidic so they ONLY way you may safely can them is as pickles:

• Bread and butter cucumber pickles - W, P
• Cucumber pickles (kosher dill, bread & butter,  or processed etc.) using mixes  - W, P
• Dill pickles, from scratch - W, P
• Old-fashioned fermented general store barrel dill pickles - W, P - (more photos coming)
• Cucumber pickle relish!  - W, P - This is the classic hamburger relish!
• No-canning-needed refrigerator cucumber pickles (kosher dill) - W, P
• Low salt / reduced salt low calorie dill pickles.
• Low-salt bread and butter pickles
• Sweet Pickled Gherkins - W, P
• Sweet Pickles (quick recipe) - W, P
• Zucchini pickles (bread-and-bu

Other Local Farm Products (Honey, Horses, Milk, Meat, Eggs, Etc.)
(NOT pick-your-own, unless they are also listed above)

• Farm markets and roadside stands
• Local Honey Finder
• Local Meat, Milk and Eggs
• Venues: Farms, Wineries, Orchards for your event, wedding or party
• Easter egg hunts
• Children"s consignment sales
• Fruit and vegetable festivals
• Winery tours and wine tastings
• Horse rides, stables, lessons, trails
• Maple Syrup farms and sugarworks
• Bed & Breakfasts on Farms, Wineries, Ranches and Orchards
• Pumpkin patches
• Corn mazes
• Zombie Paintball venues
• Christmas Tree Farms & lots
• Environmental resources
• Consumer fraud information
• Wholesale food sources
• Resources for Farmers