The weather is getting nice and it’s that time of year…Strawberry time! U-pick farms are allowed to operate, as they’re classified as food providers, an essential business.
Some farms are still allowing you to pick your own produce this spring, but they’re adding hand-washing stations, enforcing spacing between people, and implementing other measures. I’ve created a list for you, things change daily so please call ahead to make sure nothing has changed between now and the time you go.
Wake County
3. DJ’s Berry Patch
1223 Salem Church Rd., Apex, NC 27523
919-600-4020
Check https://www.facebook.com/DJs-Berry-Patch-122337307802631/ for updates.
Spring: Strawberries
Buckets are provided. Pre-picked strawberries also available. They also offer homemade ice cream, strawberry preserves, and strawberry vinaigrette dressing.
Note: DJ’s is selling pre-picked strawberries, and will soon be offering U-pick strawberries. They’ve implemented some measures meant to make buying pre-picked strawberries safer. U-pick strawberries will be starting soon, with required hand sanitizer before going into the field, and social distancing in the field.
4. Ogburn Berries and Produce
13049 Old Stage Rd., Willow Springs, NC 27592
919-868-2403
Check https://www.facebook.com/OgburnBerriesAndProduce/ for updates.
Spring: Strawberries
Also offer sweet corn, tomatoes, cantaloupes, watermelons, sweet potatoes, and more at their roadside stand at 13065 Old Stage Road.
Note: They are selling pre-picked strawberries. They have designated parking spaces for customers who want to remain in their car. They’ll deliver to your car. Staff will be wearing gloves and regularly sanitizing all surfaces. Seating areas, sandboxes and play area will not be available. There are two new handwashing stations. If you are paying with cash, have the exact amount. Do not touch any items that you’re not purchasing. Stay 6 feet away from anyone else. In addition, U-pick will be available very soon.
5. Porter Farms & Nursery – Willow Springs
3525 NC Hwy. 42, Willow Springs, NC 27592
919-567-0504
Spring: Strawberries
Fall: Pumpkins
Homemade ice cream, mums, and other fresh produce are also available depending on the season.
Note: Both pre-picked and U-pick strawberries are available. They’ve got some rules. Keep 6 feet away from people in the field or at the stand. Wash or sanitize hands before entering the field. Only touch what you’re purchasing. Fields are to be entered on one end and exited on the opposite end. Follow the rows all the way down and don’t walk or jump over them.
6. Pace Family Farms
12701 Buffalo Road, Clayton, NC 27527
919-398-2698
Spring: Strawberries
Fall: Pumpkins
The farm also offers a CSA.
Note: Pre-picked strawberries only so far. There will be a drive-thru at the farm. Stay in your vehicle. Bring your own container or bag, and they’ll transfer the strawberries from their bucket to your container.