PickYourOwn.org
Where you can find a pick-your-own farm near you!
Upstate New York
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This month's notes: November 2009: Apples are ripe. Learn about each apple variety here. Pumpkins and winter squash are in. (be sure to see our easy pumpkin pie-from a fresh pumpkin recipe!  Fall raspberries are still available in some places, and many vegetables are still in full swing! Organic farms are identified in green!  (Fruit and vegetable festivals are here). Make your own applesauce, apple butter, salsa, spaghetti sauce and save money on food bills and eat better. See easy canning instructions/recipes, canning equipment guide! Also make your own ice cream - see How to make ice cream and ice cream making equipment and manuals
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Please tell the farms you found them here - and ask them to update their information!!!

This page provides a detailed list of western New York's pick- your- own (PYO, U-pick, pick-it-yourself) farms for everything from apples, berries, fruit, pumpkins, vegetables to cut-you-own Christmas trees!  I'm always looking for suggestions of more farms and events to add and feedback about any you have visited, so if you encounter any, just click on the preceding link, as appropriate!  And if you have a farm and want to add it or correct the information, please click on the link to "add my farm".

Remember to ALWAYS either email, call or click the link to the farm's own website (if they have one) on the morning before you go, to confirm hours, conditions and availability of the specific crops you want!

We also have our own free and simple, step-by-step, illustrated instructions on canning, freezing and drying  many fruits and vegetables, such as  how to make jam, apple butter, applesauce, spaghetti sauce, salsa, pickles, ketchup or freezing corn .   If you are looking for Canners, mixes, jars, pectin and other canning supplies at the best prices anywhere!


U-Pick Farms and Orchards, sorted by county

Remember: ALWAYS call (or follow the link to the farm's own website, if the name is a blue link) to confirm the information before you go! They may close, run out or change events, times, etc. without notifying me!

Clinton County     

  • Applejacks Orchard -U Pick Apples, hayrides, pumpkin patch, hay maze
    751 Brand Hollow Road, Peru NY, 12972. Phone: 518-643-2268. E-mail: applejacks@primelink1.net. Also with a roadside stand and a farm market.
  • Country Dreams Farm - follow organic methods, corn (sweet), flowers, pumpkins, other vegetables, sleigh rides, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, corn maze, straw or hay bale maze, child-sized haybale maze, and prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, horse-drawn hay rides, tractor-pulled hay rides, wagon rides, face painting, pony rides, petting zoo
    55 Pellerin Road, Plattsburgh, NY 12901. Phone: 518-561-8941. Email us at: whinny@whinny.org. Directions: From Adirondack Northway Route 87 (North or South)- Take exit 38N, west on Route 374  take a right on to Route 190. Take the next right "Pellerin Rd" drive one mile and the Country Dreams Farm will be on your right. From Route 3  North- Take Route 3 South to Route 374 in Cadyville. Go through flashing light to next stop light,  at stop light turn left on to Military Turnpike (190). Take the first right on to "Pellerin Rd" Drive one mile and the Country Dreams Farm will be on your right. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in July, August, September, October. Open: Year Round-by appointment only at Farm. Check website for dates and times open in Lake Placid, NY Corn Maze from Mid September-Halloween. Hayrides from early May-November. Sleigh Rides November(snow permitting)-March. Petting zoo from May-October. Wedding carriage available year round. Farm History Tours May-October. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check.
  • Rulfs Orchard - Strawberries, Blueberries, and Pumpkins and Apples in the Fall
    531 Bear Swamp Road, Peru, NY, 12972. Phone: 518-643-8636. Email us at: bob@rulfsorchard.com. Open 7am to 8 pm , 7 days a week. Apple varieties: McIntosh, Empire, Cortland, Paula, Red Macoun, Lodi, Northern Spy, Delicious. Also a roadside stand and apple cider.

Essex County

  • Ledge Top Orchard - U Pick Apples - Closed in 2003
    Box 249 Lake Road, Crown Point NY, 12928. Phone: 518-597-3420. Farm Market

Franklin, County

  • Tucker Farms, Inc. - strawberries, pumpkins and a corn maze
    56 Hobart Road, Gabriels, NY 12939. Phone: Tom Tucker, 518 637-1230. Email: adkspud@hotmail.com. Directions: See directions on webpage. Open in late June/early July for U-Pick Strawberries (call ahead for availability); Great Adirondack Corn Maze begins in early/mid August and continues through the end of October (Halloween);  Our hours are: Monday through Saturday, 8 am to 4 pm. Sunday, 1 pm to 4 pm. Farm tours by appointment in advance.  Typical Hours for October (check the website for updates): October 1 thru October 31, Thursday through Sunday: 1 pm - 4 pm. Weekly Event on Friday nights: 'Flashlight' night in the corn maze, Start time is after dusk.  Closing is 10 pm, i.e. everyone must be out of the maze by 10 pm. 2008 Admission to Corn Maze is $8 for Adults; $6 for children 4-12 yrs; free for children less than 4 yrs. At all times, someone will be there who is intimately familiar with the maze. Maps will be available on which the main part of the maze will be printed. Benches will be available as well as a port-a-potty. There will be an elevated platform at the approximate mid-point of the maze. Corn Maze Rules will be posted at the field. Activities (one of which is a 'petting zoo' -- mostly chickens and ducks) will be available for the younger kids. Pack up the kids and come out for a great time! Complete your day of fun at the Corn Maze with a bit of shopping. Tucker Farms tee shirts, refreshments, fresh vegetables and especially potatoes, can be purchased. (UPDATED: September 11, 2008)

Fulton County

  • Lake View Orchards - U Pick Apples
    PO Box 528, Mayfield NY, 12117. Phone: 518-661-5017. Email: lakevieworchards@hotmail.com. Farm Market, Cider, Special Events
  • Meadowlark Farms - blueberries, raspberries (red), raspberries (Autumn, red), raspberries (Spring, black), already-picked produce (of the pyo crop), farm market
    397 Stevers Mill Road, Broadalbin, NY 12025. Phone: 518-883-6542. Alternate Phone: 518-332-0747. Fax: 518-883-4093. Email: Kmyers30@nycap.rr.com. Open: In season, blueberries picking hour: Wednesday 4;00 pm to 8:00 pm, Thursday Friday and Saturday, 8:00 am to 2:00 pm. Directions: Click here for a map and directions. Season generally runs from Mid-July to Labor Day for blueberries; Fall raspberries until hard frost; We continue to add new crops every year. Payment: Cash, Check, WIC Vouchers. (ADDED: September 02, 2009)
  • Rogers Family Orchards - U Pick Apples
    260 County Highway 131, Johnstown NY, 12095. Phone: 518-762-8736. Email: trogers@superior.net. Roadside Stand, Farm Market, Cider, Special Events .

Herkimer County

  • Anndel Farms LLC - blueberries,
    547 State Route 29, Middleville, NY 13406. Phone: 315-891-3613. Open: Blueberries, August 6 to August 29; Hours Monday to Saturday from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. Directions: Payment: Cash, Check. We have 20 acres of plants, a great view and a well maintained field. (UPDATED: July 19, 2009)
  • Brick House Acres - follow organic methods, blackberries, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, prepicked produce, school tours
    10628 Roberts Road, Frankfort, NY 13340. Phone: (315) 737-5635. Email: BrickHouseAcres@inbox.com. From the North: Take 8S to the Washington Mills exit. Turn left at the end of the ramp. Turn Right onto Oneida Street (McDonalds intersection). Take 2nd left onto Roberts Road. Go 5 miles. Brick House Acres will be on the right. From the East: Take 5S to the Fairgrounds Exit. Turn Left onto Cemetery Road (Higby Road). Go 5 miles and turn left onto Albany Road. Go to the end (1.5 mi) and take a right onto Roberts Road. Brick House Acres is 1/4 mile up on the left. Click here for a map and directions. Open: Greenhouse Hours (Annuals/Perennials/Herbs): 10am to 6pm, Closed Sundays (Mother's Day to Mid - June) Pick - Your - Own (Strawberries): 7am to 7pm, Closed Sundays (Mid - June to Early July) Pick - Your - Own (Blueberries, Raspberries, Blackberries): By appointment; Please call (315)737 to 5635 (Early July to September). Strawberries: Mid-June to Early July (Strawberries: Picking Hours 7am to7pm; Closed Sundays) Blueberries: July Blackberries: Late July to August Raspberries: Mid-July to September (Other Berries: Picking by appointment- call (315)737 to 5635). We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard, Discover. Try our tasty greenhouse-grown tomatoes! (May to July). We have a wide variety of annuals, perennials, herbs, hanging baskets, and planters for sale in our greenhouse. We also carry many rare, unique, and heirloom plants.  (ADDED: June 12, 2008) (UPDATED: June 30, 2008)
  • Wereszczak's Blueberries - blueberries, already-picked produce (of the pyo crop), restrooms
    1080 Steuben Hill Road, Herkimer, NY 13350. Phone: 315.867.5735. Open: Hours 6:30am to 6pm. Directions: From Route 5, take Route 28 North and turn left at second traffic light onto German Street. Turn right at first stop sign onto Steuben Hill Road. Follow signs for approximately 1.5 miles to blueberry patch on right. Click here for a map and directions. 2009 season opens July 23 and is anticipated to last until September; Patch gets picked out periodically, and we are forced to close to allow more berries to ripen, so we strongly recommend you call ahead to confirm daily operation; Closed Sundays. Payment: Cash, Check. (ADDED: July 11, 2009)

Jefferson County

Montgomery County

  • Bellinger's Orchard - Apples, pumpkins, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, corn maze, child-sized haybale maze, and prepicked produce, restrooms, picnic area, tractor-pulled hay rides
    685 Argersinger Road, Fultonville, NY 12072. Phone: 518-922-8558. Email us at: info@bellingersorchard.com . Directions: From the NYS Thruway: Take exit 28 from the NYS Thruway and then a left onto Riverside Dr. Make a left onto 30A and go up the hill. Take a right onto VanEpps Road. Go two and one-half miles and then bear right onto Argersinger Road. Our orchard is exactly one mile down the road. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Open: daily 10-6 Cornmaze: Open daily 10am-5pm (Last ticket sold at 5 pm) Payment: Cash, only.
  • Sand Flats Orchard - apples, corn (sweet), pumpkins, winter squash, tomatoes, Maple Syrup from trees on the farm, and prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, farm animals, birthday parties, school tours
    371 Martin Road, Fonda, Select your state 12068. Phone: 518-853-4999. Email: jim@sandflatsorchard.com. Directions: From the North: Follow Route 30A from Johnstown south about 3 miles. Turn right onto Commons Road go about 1.8 miles to the intersection of Martin Road and Commons Road. From the East: NY Thruway to exit 28, left on to Riverside Drive about 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Route 30A, you will go over the Mohawk River and pass Fonda Speadway. Turn left onto Route 5, go through the village of Fonda, about .5 miles. Turn right onto Route 334/ Cayadutta St. follow for 1.9 miles. Turn left on to Commons Road go about .1 mile to the intersection of Martin Road and Commons Road. OR Follow Route 5 west to Fonda, go through the village of Fonda, about .5 miles. Turn right onto Route 334/ Cayadutta St. follow for 1.9 miles. Turn left on to Commons Road go about .1 mile to the intersection of Martin Road and Commons Road. From the South: Follow the directions from the East if using the NY Thruway. Follow Route 30A to Fultonville, you will go over the Mohawk River and pass Fonda Speadway. Turn left onto Route 5, go through the village of Fonda, about .5 miles. Turn right onto Route 334 Cayadutta St. follow for 1.9 miles. Turn left on to Commons Road go about .1 mile to the intersection of Martin Road and Commons Road. From the West: Follow Route 5 from Canajoharie east about 9.8 miles. Turn left onto Martin Road go 1.3 miles. And for a map to our farm, Click here. Crops are usually available in August, September. Open: seven days a week, 9am to 6pm Payment: Cash, Check.

Oneida County

  • Candella's Farm Market - U-pick strawberries, Precut, Christmas trees
    9256 River Road, Marcy, NY 13403. Phone: (315) 736-8782. Open: May to December.
  • Heywoods's Blueberries - blueberries,
    9947 Evans Road, Remsen, NY 13438. Phone: 315-831-8096. Email: heywoodsblueberries@yahoo.com. Directions: Click here for a map and directions. Open: Blueberries: Wednesday and Saturday, 7:30am to 6:30pm. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Blueberries: Late July to Labor Day; Pre-picked and U-pick Blueberries. Click here for picking updates. Payment: Cash, only. Springtime: Bedding plants, hanging baskets, vegetable plants, herbs Greenhouse open Mid-May to Mid June Daily 10am to 7pm. (UPDATED: July 14, 2008)
  • Hinman Farms - strawberries
    6260 State Route 5, Vernon, NY. Phone: (315) 404-7013. Open: June to August. Also, roadside stand with assorted fruits and vegetables, rhubarb, peas.
  • North Star Orchards - U Pick Apples and blueberries
    4741 Route 233, Westmoreland NY, 13490. Phone 315-853-1024. Email: click here for their contact form. Directions: Click here for a map and directions. Open: call for hours and crop availability. Also Apple cider and a farm market with a bakery. (UPDATED: August 15, 2009)
  • Paris Hill Farm Market - strawberries
    3295 State Route 12, Clinton, NY. Phone: (315) 737-7949. Open: 7 days a week, May through October
    Monday to Saturday from  9-6; Sun 10-5 , but call to confirm!
  • Swistak Farm - Strawberries, blueberries
    6644 Greenway New London Road, Rome, NY 13478. Phone: (315) 336-1251. Open: June - October for U-pick. Also prepicked tomatoes, assorted vegetables
  • Tassleberry Farm - strawberries
    Stop 7 Road, Westmoreland, NY 13490. Phone: 508-641-1222 or 315-796-4587. Email: Sales@tassleberry.com. Directions: From the Westmoreland exit of the thruway take 233 south to the first light in Westmoreland; Go left and then right at your first 4 corner Stop sign; that's Stop 7 Road; We are down about a mile; Look for the U-Pick sign. Open: Mondays through Fridays 7:30 am to 7 pm, Saturdays 7 am to 5 pm, Sundays 7 am to 2 p.m. Strawberry season ends Independence Day (July 4). Fresh corn season ends Labor Day (September 3)

Oswego County

  • The Apple Grove Farm Country Store - U Pick Apples
    5987 Route 3, Mexico NY, 13114. Phone: 315-963-7504. Email: msgapple@aol.com. Roadside Stand, Farm Market, Cider
  • Behling Orchards - Apples, blackberries, cherries, pumpkins, strawberries, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, corn maze, haunted corn maze, straw or hay bale maze, child-sized haybale maze, and prepicked produce, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, wagon rides, face painting, pony rides
    114 Potter Road, Mexico, NY 13114. Phone: 3159637068. Email us at: ebehling61@hotmail.com. Directions: Take route 81 to Mexico exit follow signs to Mexico Take Fravor Road to Potter Road. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in June, July, September, October. Open: 8am to 5pm seven days a week September 1st thru October 31st. Strawberries: June 10th. Raspberries and blackberries: July. Corn maze and other fall activities: open from September15th through October 31st" Payment: Cash, Check.
  • The Farm - pumpkins, winter squash, and prepicked produce, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, corn maze, child-sized haybale maze, tractor-pulled hay rides, prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, school tours
    102 Huntley Road, Phoenix, NY 13135. Phone: 315-695-FARM. Directions: From North take Rt481 South to Phoenix exit Take a right on Route 264 go to light then take a left on Route 57 continue on Route 57 to Route 57A take a left on Route 57A to Huntley Road turn right The Farm is on the left just past Barett Paving. From the south take Route 481 North to the Phoenix exit turn left on Route 57A then take the next left on Huntley Road The Farm is on the left just past Barett Paving. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in September, October. Open:  Weekends starting Sept. 27 2008 10am-6pm Please call for dates and hours for Moonlight Maze. We will also be open on Mon. & Tues. October 13th & 14th from 10am-6pm; Please call for latest information.  Payment: Cash, only. We also have a Trike Track, Pumpkin Sling Shots and will be adding much more for our 2008 season!! Will update soon with our new website & we look forward to seeing you all at THE FARM!!. (ADDED: May 08, 2008)(UPDATED: September 07, 2008)
  • Fruit Valley Orchard - U Pick Apples
    507 Bunker Hill Road, Oswego NY, 13126. Phone: 315-342-3793. Email: fvo1@earthlink.net. Roadside Stand, Cider
  • Maple Help Stock Farms - U Pick Apples
    207 Hurlbut Road, Mexico NY, 13114. Phone: 315-963-7558. Farm Market, Cider
  • Ontario Orchards Farm and Farm Market - apples, pumpkins, Turkeys (organic, not-hormone-fed), Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, Bouncy castle or moon bounce, petting zoo, farm animals, school tours
    7735 State Route 104, Oswego, NY 13126. Phone: 315-343-6328. Email: info@ontarioorchards.com. Open: Open the second weekend in September through Columbus Day weekend, every Saturday and Sunday from 9am til 6pm. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Picking updates: Click here for picking updates. Directions: From Syracuse: 81N to 481W to Oswego, Left on Route 104W, Bear right onto 104A at Ontario Orchards Farm Market, Follow signs for Fall Jamboree, U-Cut Christmas Trees, or U-Pick Apples From Rochester: 104E to 38N, To 104A, Turn right to N. Sterling, Follow signs for Fall Jamboree, U-Cut Christmas Trees, or U-Pick Apples From Fulton: Follow Rte. 3 to End, Cross 104, Turn Right onto 104A, Go to N. Sterling, Follow signs for Fall Jamboree, U-Cut Christmas Trees, or U-Pick Apples. Click here for a map and directions. U-Pick Apples, Pumpkins, and Hayrides are available The second weekend of September each year; Ontario Orchards: Fall Jamboree occurs the third weekend of September each year; U-Cut Christmas Trees occurs the first weekend after Thanksgiving each year until Christmas; Please check our website for specific hours. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. You can also visit our website to place orders. Join our facebook group Taste of CNY by Ontario Orchards to receive weekly updates featured products and specials at Ontario Orchards! If you have any questions about products, store hours, or events at Ontario Orchards please call or email us. (UPDATED: November 18, 2009)
  • Sage Creek Orchards - Apples, blueberries, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, and prepicked produce, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, tractor-pulled hay rides, face painting
    139 Minckler Road, Mexico, NY 13114. Phone: 315-963-3486. Fax: 315-963-3578. Email us at: sagecreekorchard@aol.com. Directions: From I 81 take exit 34, NY 104 and take 104 west about 5 miles, turn right onto North St./County Road 41. Go straight ahead about 1 3/4 miles. Road becomes Minkler Road. We are on the left. Just follow the signs. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in July, August, September, October, November. Open: 7 days a week, from 9am to 6pm July 1st thru November 15th. Payment: Cash, Check, Visa/MasterCard.
  • St Gregory's Retreat Center - U Pick Apples
    Changed ownership - see Sage Creek, above
  • T. Gerald Clark Farm - U Pick Apples
    280 Hurlbut Road, Mexico NY, 13114. Phone: 315-963-7559.
  • Wiltse's Fruit Farm - U Pick Apples
    8515 St. Route 104, Hannibal NY, 13074. Phone: 315-564-5333. And a Farm Market, Cider

Saratoga County

  • Bowman Orchards - Pick your own and picked apples, cider and donuts.
    141 Sugar Hill Road, Rexford NY, 12148. Phone: 518-371-2042. Email: kevin@bowmanorchards.com. Roadside Stand, Farm Market
  • Bowman Orchards North - U Pick Apples
    107 Van Aervunem Road, Ballston Spa NY, 12020. Phone: 518-885-8888. And a Farm Market, Cider
  • The Charlton Fruit Farm - follow organic methods, strawberries, prepicked produce
    4074 Jockey Street, Charlton, NY 12019. Phone: 518 399 6563. Email: PNIKIFOROV@nycap.rr.com. And for a map to our farm, click here. Crops are usually available in June, July. Open: call for availability. We follow organic methods, but are not yet certified. Payment: Cash, only. (ADDED: June 07, 2008)
    A visitor writes on June 17, 2009: "I picked Strawberries at the Charlton Fruit Farm with daughter yesterday. It is a small farm, so they really like to you call ahead since they limit the number of people. I didn't realize that, but there was no one else picking when we got there (Tuesday afternoon), so they didn't turn us away. I would definitely recommend it. The strawberries were delicious and the people were very friendly."
    A visitor writes on June 12, 2009: "I just wanted to add a comment about the Charlton Fruit Farm. We would highly recommend this farm to any berry/fruit pickers. It's a small farm and they limit the number of people who can visit at once. But the quality of the fruit (probably because all the good stuff isnt gone when you get there) is amazing. We picked strawberries there a few days ago and we could not believe how good they were, and how plentiful. The owners are very friendly and accomodating also. And the best part is that they are organic so the fruit is ready to eat right off the plants!"
  • Devoe's Rainbow Orchards - U Pick Apples
    1569 Halfmoon Parkway, Route 9, Clifton Park NY, 12065. Phone: 518-371-8397. Roadside Stand
  • Fo-Castle Farm Country Store Inc - U Pick Apples
    166 Kingsley Road, Burnt Hills NY, 12027-9531. Phone: 518-399-8322. And a Farm Market
  • Hicks Fruit Farm - U Pick Apples
    160 Sugar Hill Road, Rexford NY, 12148. Phone: 518-371-5620. And a Farm Market
  • Lindsey's Idyllwood Orchard - U Pick Apples
    753 Grooms Road, Rexford NY, 12148-1414. Phone: 518-365-3611. Email: duanelin@mac.com. And a Farm Market
  • Riverview Orchards - U Pick Apples
    660 Riverview Road, Rexford NY, 12148. Phone: 518-371-2174. Email: isabel@rivervieworchards.com. And a Farm Market, Special Events
  • Saratoga Apple, Inc. - U Pick Apples
    1174 Route 29, Schuylerville NY, 12871. Phone: 518-695-3131. Pick apples, ride wagons to the orchards, taste a delicious cider donut or other freshly baked treat. U Pick Apples, Farm Market, Cider  
    A visitor writes on May 21, 2009: "I have lived near Saratoga Apple, since it was purchased prior to then it was Bullard's Orchard. I have heard about the over charging and how you can't walk across the road and walk through the orchard. I also know a neighbor of Saratoga Apple who used to pick up the dropped apples, until they started charging her full price for them. I also know of many other Orchards in the area, Borden's in Easton (ed. note: under Washington County, below), they do not offer anything fancey except for wholesome apples and yummy cider. No pumpkin patch or wagon rides, and no petting zoo. The idea behind pick you own and kids is to show them the fun of harvesting your own food, the work that goes into picking and the marvel of mother nature. The rest of the stuff is filler. "
    A visitor writes on May 19, 2009: "I have been there several times. It is free to go there. They have bins with apples you can bag and purchase, along with squashes and pumkins. They do charge to pick your own. well pay or just PICK the already PICKED fruits. There is no reason to complain. John.   PS: they have a very large variety of apples"
    A visitor writes on September 14, 2008: "We took my 9- and 3-year-old children to Saratoga Apple in Schuylerville, NY today but we left there with no apples and both of my kids confused and in tears. We wanted to purchase the medium sized $12 bag, the perfect amount for our small family, but I was told that in order for all 4 of us to participate in the picking, we would actually have to pay $24 for “entry for 4 people” and twice as many apples. Even worse, I later discovered that the Saratoga Apple website says “no admission.” As a young family, not only can’t we eat 25 pounds of apples, we also have to look for fun activities that fit into our budget. But how do I explain to my kids that only one of them gets to go because I didn’t bring enough money for all of us? My 9-year-old’s response to the situation was to tell her brother that Saratoga Apple was being “greedy.” Clearly she learned the lesson I was teaching about sticking to your principles and not allowing yourself to be taken advantage of. It used to be that picking your own fruits and vegetables was a fun and low-cost family activity. We’ve had many wonderful summers picking our own at local farms and have only ever been asked to pay for the fruit we picked. Patronizing local farms is important to us but we’d rather go to a place that appreciates us, rather than one that penalizes me for bringing the whole family. P.S. I love your website and use it all the time, especially as a new canner!"
    A visitor writes on September 21, 2008: "I am furious with the admissions charges at Saratoga Apple and I will no longer pick apples there. I was told that the entry fee had been in effect for 4 years and this is untrue. When I questioned it further, I was told the fee covered the wagon ride, but when I asked if I could walk and pay less, I was told no. I should not have to pay Saratoga Apple in order to pick fruit. I should pay for the apples picked and this should not be affected by the number of people who help me fill my bags. Saratoga Apple advertises that they have no admissions fee. This is false advertising, in addition to being a ripoff!"
    A visitor writes on September 21, 2008: "This is my fifth season employed at Saratoga Apple. I have heard more positive feedback on their picking policy than negative. The policy is in place for a reason...to extend the apple picking season for as long as possible..this gives everyone a chance to ENJOY (keyword) the experience. "Sticking to your principles" and "not being taken advantage of" is also part of owning a business. Perhaps the 9 year-old should also be taught what it means to "earn a living"..."
    A visitor writes on October 03, 2008: "I have not been here. But after reading the reviews I decided to take a look at their website...it clearly states on their website that there is no admission. I understand that the orchard and the people working there have to make a living, however, this is false advertising and unfortunately it is resulting in families having a horrible experience when they get there. I am all for the buy local theory, but this is one farm that is ripping off it's customers despite what their employee may have commented. Maybe you could make people visiting your site aware that they will have to pay admission per person. "
    A visitor writes on October 11, 2008: "OMG..somebody call "whine" 11...Saratoga Apple charges $6 per person (children 3 and under FREE)...that includes a 1/2 peck bag, your choice of the variety of apple and a wagon ride on the weekends...this is less than you'd spend taking your kids to the movies or getting your nails done.. get over it..."
    A visitor writes on October 21, 2008: "I go to Saratoga Apple every year with my family. I love it there! It's close to where I live and the apples are always sooooo delicous! I'm not sure as to what some of these people are saying but they sure aren't thinking of the right Saratoga Apple! I can't wait to go this weekend. =)"

    Does anyone else have comments (positive or negative)?
    Write me!

    Google has other reviews here.

Schenectady County

  • Buhrmaster Family Farm - U Pick Apples
    Route 50, Scotia NY, 12302. Phone: 518-399-5931. And a Farm Market

Washington County

  • Billy Bob's Orchard - apples, and prepicked produce, school tours
    720 County Road, Putnam Station, NY 12861. Phone: (518) 547-8309. Email: billy-bob'sorchard@hotmail.com. Open: Fall Hours: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 10:00 am to 5:00 p.m. Payment: Cash, only.
  • Fairview Orchard - U Pick Apples
    11962 State Route 4, Whitehall NY, 12887. Phone: 518-499-1766. Roadside Stand, Cider. 
  • Hand Melon Farm - Pick your own strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, Fall raspberries
    533 Wilbur Avenue, State Route 29, Greenwich, NY 12834. Phone: 518 692-2376. Fax: 518 692-2376. Directions: Across from the Washington County Fairgrounds. Hand's Farm Market offers high quality fruits, vegetables & bedding plants. May-Columbus Day. Pick your own strawberries in June, blueberries in July. 2006 prices were $2/lb for blueberries.
    A visitor writes on May 21, 2009: "They also have pick your own tomatoes and peppers and Fall Raspberries. The veggies picking always starts the 3rd weekend of August and runs until supplies last. Last years price was $15.00 per bushel. Bushel baskets themselves cost $2.00 each (bring your own containers!) Fall Raspberries start around early September (late August) and go until a hard frost. The light frosts make the berries sweeter. There are 2 patches to pick from. "
    A visitor writes on May 25, 2008: "They send me a post card to let us know what is ready for picking. They have a large variety of PYO strawberries and they are very well tended!"
  • Hicks Orchard - U Pick apples, cherries, blueberries, raspberries
    18 Hicks Road, Granville NY, 12832. Phone: 518-642-1788. Email: apples@hicksorchard.com.  And a Farm Market, Cider, Special Events. Directions: Click here for directions. (UPDATED: May 01, 2009)
    Fresh Fruit Typical Harvesting Dates

    Tart Cherries

    July 1-July 25
    Blueberries July 15 - August 25
    Summer Raspberries July 15 - August 15
    Apples Mid-July - Late October
    Fall Raspberries Sept 3 - Oct 31 (or hard freeze)
    A visitor writes on May 01, 2009: "Just visiting your site for the first time, looking for local strawberry picking. Just a note to tell anyone interested, that my family has picked apples & berries at Hick's Orchards in Washington County for three generations. If you're not finding satisfaction in Saratoga County, come on up! It's a family owned and oriented orchard with plenty of fun for the kids and very reasonable prices (no hidden charges!). I highly recommend it!"
  • Moses Vegetable Farm - corn (sweet), peppers, pumpkins, tomatoes, other vegetables, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, and prepicked produce, gift shop
    Route 67, Eagle Bridge, NY 11111. Phone: 518 686 7729. Directions: Intersection of Route 67 & 22 Crops are usually available in May, October. Open: call for hours. This is the famous farmland that once belonged to Grandma Moses, inherited by her children and grand-children who operate it today. Customers say they are renowned for the variety and quality of the vegetables they grow. One visitor says: "WORTH THE TRIP! Check them out!"
  • Sbardella Orchards - apples
    141 Manchester Road, Hampton, NY. Phone: 802-345-2704. Email us at: donna@sbardellaorchards.com. Directions: Click here for a map. Open: Please see the Orchard Hours page for hours and more information. We will be opening on September 12th and will be picking early Macintosh apples. We also have cider doughnuts, apple cider, maple syrup, honey, and animals for the kids to see!
    A visitor writes on August 29, 2008:
    "Macintosh, Cortland, Northern Spies all pick your own! Honey, maple syrup, and fresh cider from local providers as well." (Suggested by a visitor, ADDED: August 29, 2008)
  • Winney Farm - Blueberries
    113 Winney Road (Rt 32), Schuylerville, NY 12871. Phone: (518) 695-5547. Directions: 3 miles North of Schuylerville NY. Open: 8 am to 6 pm daily. A visitor writes: "High Bush, Huge Berries, Huge Crops. I believe they have other Vegetables as well and barn store, picking baskets. Picked the summer of 2007 and the blueberries were outstanding.". Prices in 2008 are $1.95 per pound. 1 1/2 gallons of blueberries (about 9 pounds) cost about $18.  Blueberries will be available for picking here from early July until mid to late August. (UPDATED: July 18, 2008)

Fresh Fruit Harvesting Dates*

Tart Cherries

July 1-July 25
Blueberries July 15 - August 25
Summer Raspberries July 15 - August 15
Apples Mid-July - Late October
Fall Raspberries Sept 3 - Oct 31 (or hard freeze)
   
Apples:  
Lodi Mid July
McIntosh Mid September thru Mid October
Cortland Mid September thru Mid October
Empire Late September thru Late October
Macoun Late September thru Late October
Liberty Late September thru Late October
Red Delicious Late September thru Late October
Jonagold Late September thru Late October
Mutsu Early October thru Late October
Northern Spy Early October thru Late October
Golden Delicious Mid October thru Late October
   
Fall Raspberries Sept 3 - Oct 31 (or hard freeze)


Farmers Markets, Farm Stands and Farmer's Markets (NOT pick-your-own, unless they are also listed above)

Oswego County

  • Ontario Orchards Farm and Farm Market - Wide variety of seasonal, fruits and vegetables (some locally grown), Indoor market, Fresh local eggs, Baked goods, Preserves, jams, jellies, apples, asparagus, beans, beets, blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries, broccoli, cherries, chestnuts, corn (sweet), cucumbers, currants (red and black), flowers, grapes, herbs/spices, melons, nectarines, onions, other berries, pears, peas, peaches, pecans , peppers, pumpkins, raspberries (red), raspberries (Spring, red), raspberries (black), raspberries (Spring, black), rhubarb, summer squash, winter squash, strawberries, tomatoes, other vegetables, walnuts, Other fruit or veg, Turkeys (organic, not-hormone-fed), Cider mill (fresh apple cider made on the premises), gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, restrooms, picnic area, face painting, Bouncy castle or moon bounce, petting zoo, farm animals, school tours
    7735 State Route 104, Oswego, NY 13126. Phone: 315-343-6328. Email: info@ontarioorchards.com. Open: Open 12 months a Year on every Day; Check out our website for seasonal changes in hours. Click here for current open hours, days and dates. Picking updates: Click here for updates. Directions: From Syracuse: 81N to 481W to Oswego, Left on Route 104W, Bear right onto 104A at Ontario Orchards Farm Market, Follow signs for Fall Jamboree, U-Cut Christmas Trees, or U-Pick Apples From Rochester: 104E to 38N, To 104A, Turn right to N. Sterling, Follow signs for Fall Jamboree, U-Cut Christmas Trees, or U-Pick Apples From Fulton: Follow Rte. 3 to End, Cross 104, Turn Right onto 104A, Go to N. Sterling, Follow signs for Fall Jamboree, U-Cut Christmas Trees, or U-Pick Apples. Click here for a map and directions. U-Pick Apples, Pumpkins, and Hayrides are available The second weekend of September each year; Ontario Orchards: Fall Jamboree occurs the third weekend of September each year; U-Cut Christmas Trees occurs the first weekend after Thanksgiving each year until Christmas; Please check our website for specific hours. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard, Discover, AmEx. You can also visit our website to place orders. Join our facebook group Taste of CNY by Ontario Orchards to receive weekly updates featured products and specials at Ontario Orchards! If you have any questions about products, store hours, or events at Ontario Orchards please call or email us. Locally produced products change according to the season and availability. We specialize in providing local products. (UPDATED: November 18, 2009)

Washington County

  • Bordens Orchard - apples
    Valley Falls Road, Schaghticoke - Washington County. Phone: 518-692-2370
    Directions: We are located on Valley Falls Road in the Town of Easton. You can follow our signs from Route 40
    - From the North (Greenwich): turn left at the Easton Vol. Fire House, then straight for 1.7 miles
    - From the South (Schaghticoke) go 3 miles north on Rt.40, turn right on Crandalls Corners Road (dirt road), then left at end, we are three quarters of a mile north
    - From the East (Cambridge): take Route 67 to Schaghticoke or take County Route 59 to Center Cambridge Road, to So. Cambridge Road, to Meeting House Road, left on Valley Falls Road, 1.5 miles south
    Apples: Red Melba, Pristine, Summer treat, Redfree, Empress, Ginger Gold, Paulared, Gala, Niagara, Milton, McIntosh, Ozark Gold, Honeycrisp, Macoun, Liberty, R.I.Greening, Spartan, Cortland, Red Delicious, Empire, Jonagold, Fortune, Idared, Pound Sweet, Golden Delicious, Spigold, Northern Spy, Rome Beauty, Winter Banana, Granny Smith.
  • Kelly's Emerald Feeds - Wide variety of seasonal, fruits and vegetables (some locally grown), Preserves, jams, jellies, pumpkins,
    672 County Line Road, Queensbury, NY 12804. Phone: 518-793-5474. Email: emerald_isle_farm@hotmail.com. Open: Monday to Saturday from 8am to 7pm; Sunday from 10am to 5pm. Directions: I87 to exit19; 254 east to 9L north;3 miles to a right onto Hicks Road; Left at the 4 corners onto County line Road; Farm on right. Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check, Debit cards, Visa/MasterCard. Hay and straw bales Mums in fall bloom. (ADDED: September 12, 2009)

 


 

Home Canning Kits

Features:


* All the tools you need for hot waterbath canning - in one comprehensive set!
* Complete with 21 1/2 qt. enameled waterbath canner and "Ball Blue Book" of canning.
* Also includes canning rack, funnel, jar lifter, jar wrencher, bubble freer, tongs and lid lifter.
* A Kitchen Krafts exclusive collection.

This is the same type of  standard canner that my grandmother used to make everything from applesauce to jams and jellies to tomato and spaghetti sauce. This complete kit includes everything you need and lasts for years: the canner, jar rack, jar grabber tongs, lid lifting wand, a plastic funnel, labels, bubble freer, and the bible of canning, the Ball Blue Book. It's much cheaper than buying the items separately. You'll never need anything else except jars & lids! To see more canners, of different styles, makes and prices, click here!For more information and current pricing:
 

Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Usually ships in 1-2 business days

This page was updated on 18-Nov-2009      


Remember to ALWAYS call the farm or orchard BEFORE you go - weather, heavy picking and business conditions can always affect their hours and crops!


PYO Farms in Other Countries: [ Australia ] [ Canada ] [ South Africa ] [ New Zealand ] [ United Kingdom ]

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