Coalition Partners: Strawberry U-Pick Season Is Here!
There are a few signs that summer is arriving in the Willamette Valley.
The days get a little longer. The farmers markets get a little busier. Folks start arguing over whether marionberries or strawberries are the superior berry.
And then suddenly everyone you know is posting photos of giant buckets of strawberries.
It's strawberry season.
If you've never visited a U-Pick farm before, consider this your invitation. There is something magical about wandering through rows of berry plants, finding the perfect ripe berry hidden beneath the leaves, and eating at least a handful before it ever makes it into your bucket. We won't tell.
Beyond being a fun way to spend a morning, U-Pick farms connect us to the seasons in a way that grocery stores simply can't. You start to understand just how much work goes into growing food. You learn that strawberries don't magically appear year-round. And if you're lucky, you leave with enough berries to enjoy now and preserve for later.
That's what we call building a sovereign pantry.
A sovereign pantry isn't about perfection. It's about learning simple skills that help us make the most of local abundance. Maybe that's freezing a few bags of berries for winter smoothies. Maybe it's making jam with your kids. Maybe it's turning a mountain of strawberries into fruit leather.
Every little bit counts.
Where to Pick Strawberries
This season we're highlighting two local farms offering strawberries in the Southern Willamette Valley. These farms are a part of our coalition.
A & M Family Farms
Located in Pleasant Hill, A & M Family Farms grows beautiful strawberries and offers seasonal U-Pick opportunities throughout the berry season.
Thistledown Farm
Located near Junction City, Thistledown Farm is a family farm growing dozens of crops throughout the season. Their farm stand and U-Pick opportunities are a wonderful way to experience local agriculture firsthand.
Before heading out, always check the farm's website or social media for the most up-to-date information. Berry availability, field conditions, and picking hours can change quickly depending on weather and harvest conditions.
What To Do With All Those Strawberries
Let's be honest.
Most of them are probably getting eaten on the drive home.
But if you happen to make it home with a full basket, here are a few ideas:
Freeze berries whole for smoothies.
Make strawberry freezer jam.
Dry them for snacks.
Bake a crisp or shortcake.
Add them to salads.
Blend them into popsicles.
Make fruit leather.
Share a basket with a neighbor.
One of our favorite preservation projects is fruit leather. It's simple, kid-friendly, and a great way to use berries that are a little too soft for fresh eating. We’ll be sharing more recipes throughout the month of June!
