Believe it or not, summer is coming to an end. As August rolls into view, as do the school supplies commercials and the end of summer to-do lists. Before you pack up your belongings and head back to school for another uncertain semester, there is one more thing to add to your list: going to pick your own produce and engage in a true farm-to-table experience!

Growing up, I was fortunate to have been taught which produce was best in which season and how to find the best ones. One of my favorite activities with my family was going to a pick-your-own-farm, which involves finding and picking the best fresh fruits and vegetables by hand that you can take home: a true example of farm to table! But because of COVID-19, it had been quite a while since we had been to pick peaches and tomatoes. Now, with vaccinations and the public opening up, it is the perfect time to embrace your inner farmer!

This is your sign to go find and enjoy the freshest produce you can before the semester gets intense. I’m not talking about the farmers market or the overpriced grocery store either. It’s time to make a day, pick tons of the freshest fruits and vegetables at your local farm or orchard (for me it was Ochs Orchard in Warwick, NY), and then create pies (or whatever delicious recipe comes to mind!) to share with your friends and family. Going to pick your own produce is an affordable and really fun way to spend time with your friends and family. Most farms are pay-by-the-pound for specific fruits and vegetables, so you are allowed to pick as much or as little as you like!

Not sure what day to go? I have you covered with a seasonality chart! However, be sure to call your local orchard or farm to see what’s best that week, as it changes depending on local climate and soil conditions.

August:

Blackberries

Cabbage

Kale

Onion

Peaches

Peppers

Plums (sugar plums are my go to)

Tomatoes

September:

Apples

Beets