Where to Pick Berries Near Cypress
Berry picking is not just about harvesting the juiciest, sun-kissed berries; it's an engaging way for families to connect with nature and each other. These u-pick farms near Cypress offer a delightful outdoor adventure, inviting families to stroll through lush fields, baskets in hand, choosing the perfect berries to pluck. It’s an experience that combines the joys of fresh air and physical activity with the sweet reward of tasting your hand-picked fruits.
So, when are berries in season for picking? In Texas, strawberries ripen from mid-February to early May, peaking in April. Blueberries ripen from late May to mid-July, and blackberries are usually harvested in May and early June.
U-pick farms provide a wonderful opportunity to teach kids about where their food comes from, all while spending quality time together as a family and supporting local farmers. This wholesome activity promises a bounty of berries and beautiful memories, making every visit a cherished family tradition. Begin your own traditions by visiting one, two, or all of these farms during berry season. But before you head out the door, check with each farm to ensure stock and availability.
Atkinson Farm
Address: 3217 Spring Cypress Rd, Spring, TX 77388
Located on the outskirts of Spring, Texas, Atkinson Farm, a fourth-generation farm, has been a staple for nearly 75 years. They produce over 60 varieties of vegetables, supplying fresh produce to local markets and offering pick-your-own experiences for strawberries and blackberries. Visitors can pick their own berries from December to July, paying by the pound at the store. Atkinson Farm also offers unique finds like fresh preserves, cucumbers, squash, and tomatoes. The farm, open March 1 to October 31, invites guests to explore their offerings in-store. Check their Facebook page for updates.
Neal's Berry Farm
Address: 21104 Binford Rd, Waller, TX 77484
From 1986 to 2009, the owners operated Neal's Restaurant in Spring, Texas, inspiring them to start Neal's Berry Farm near The Woodlands in 2009. After facing access issues, they relocated to Waller, expanding their crop variety. With an array of produce including thornless blackberries, peaches, figs, Muscadine grapes, and more, the farm continues to attract visitors for U-Pick experiences. Although closed until late April or early May 2024, the farm anticipates reopening for the new season, offering a diverse selection of fruits, vegetables, and flowers for guests to enjoy. Check their Facebook page for updates.
Thornless blackberries at Neal's Berry Farm in Waller. (Source: Neal's Berry Farm)
Moorhead’s Blueberry Farm
Address: 19531 Moorhead Rd, Conroe, TX 77302
Moorhead’s Blueberry Farm, the first commercially operated blueberry farm in Texas, was established in the mid-1970s by Albert Moorhead after a field trip that sparked his interest in planting Southern Blueberries. Starting with 20 plants, his successful cultivation led to expanding the farm to over 20 blueberry varieties. What began as a hobby evolved into a pick-your-own blueberry business within five years. During the blueberry season, the farm opens on specific days depending on crop availability, welcoming visitors to pick fresh blueberries until late May or early June when the next harvest season begins in 2024. Check their Facebook page for updates.
VegOut! Farms
Address: 5648 Muske Ln, Brookshire, TX 77423
VegOut! Farms, established in October 2002, is a 21-acre farm located 12 miles NW of Katy, Texas, in Pattison. The farm, run by Brenda Koch, an advocate for sustainability and education, has expanded to include six additional greenhouses, boasting a total growing capacity of over 50,000 square feet. Specializing in tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, cucumbers, strawberries, and herbs, the farm supplies produce to H-E-B, local restaurants, and Home Delivery services. Dr. Jeff Koch, now full-time at the farm, brings his expertise as a construction manager and oversees the General Store. Unfortunately, due to family health issues, VegOut! Farms announced their temporarily closure in November 2023 with plans to reopen in 2024. Call 281-934-4348 or check their Facebook page for updates.
Family Farms
Address: 11351 County Rd 203, Plantersville, TX 77363
Established in 1955 as a dairy farm, Family Farms transitioned into a pick-your-own farm in 2012, offering vegetables, strawberries, and blackberries. They practice organic growing methods and provide a variety of activities like garden and farm tours, fishing, cabin rentals, and seasonal picking. The farm store offers homemade jams and raw honey. Visitors can enjoy pumpkin painting, hayrides, and educational tours, making it a wholesome destination for families seeking fresh produce and outdoor fun. Check for updates on their Facebook page.
A happy strawberry picker at Family Farms, enjoying her harvest. (Source: Family Farms)
Planning for Your U-Pick Experience
For your u-pick outing, be sure to have a full charge on your smart phone so you can take lots of pictures, or bring your good camera with you to snap photos of your family in the fields. Wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the UV rays, consider wearing a hat and wear comfortable shoes. Bring a bottle of water for each participant to stay hydrated, and be sure to use the facilities before heading out into the field.
Pro tip: plan ahead and determine what you will do with your harvest. An entire bucket of berries is far more fruit than you might realize! Find recipes online for delicious goodies like berry pie, preserves, and jam. You can even dehydrate your fruit for a tasty - and healthy - snack. Share your bounty with friends, neighbors and family.
Happy picking!
By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region. |