By Malinda Geisler, content specialist, Ag Marketing Resource Center, Iowa State University.

Profile revised May 2008.


Overview

A pick-your-own, or U-pick, farm allows consumers to harvest produce themselves. Therefore, the farm requires less labor for harvesting. Tasks such as grading, storing and packing are eliminated.

Like many ag enterprises, this type of operation requires long work hours. Most pick-your-own business takes place on weekends. It usually requires more liability insurance. To attract customers, the farm's location needs to be appealing. Parking is another critical factor and should be within reasonable walking distance of the production site. Poor weather can keep customers from visiting the farm.

In 2007, the United States produced $1.7 billion strawberries. Winter production is dominated by Florida. California grows the majority of the spring strawberries.
 

Source

Noncitrus Fruits and Nuts, National Agricultural Statistics Service, USDA.

The United States leads world in strawberry production. Economic Research Service, USDA, 2005.

Other Links

• 2008 Pest Management Guide for Commercial Small Fruits, Washington State University - This research-based document outlines cultural and chemical controls for raspberries as well as blueberries and strawberries. It includes integrated pest management methods for insects, diseases and weeds.
• Hazeltine Strawberries, Janesville, Wisconsin - Offers about 12 acres of pick-your-own strawberries. Pre-picked strawberries, fall red raspberries and asparagus are also available.  
• Kelder's Farm and U-Pick, Kerhonksen, New York - This farm offers pick-your-own strawberries along with blueberries and raspberries. It has a greenhouse with flowering annuals, perennials and vegetables.
• Larriland Farm, Woodbine, Maryland - Strawberries have been grown on this farm for more than 30 years. In addition to 14 acres of strawberries, the farm raises tart cherries, several varieties of raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, apples, peaches, nectarines and vegetables.
• North American Strawberry Growers Association - This grower-based association supports ongoing research and educational activities.
• Private Sales and Public Information: Does the USDA's National Berry Report Provide Information on the Relationship between the Spot Market and Precommitted Sales?, Agricultural Issues Center, University of California.

 
Links checked May 2008.