The Playground: Berry Picking

Welcome to The Playground, a place for Vancouver families. I’m always on the lookout for fun stuff to do, so if there’s something happening that you think I should know about, don't hesitate to contact me .

Don't let the rain fool you but the local berry season is well underway and there are a lot of local farms that let you pick them yourself. It's the perfect way to kick off the summer season so put the kids to work and go berry picking! And by the way, don't things always taste better when you pick them yourself?

Strawberries are the first to arrive - starting in early June and lasting until mid July. Raspberries and blueberries have the same season and start early July. Get out early in the season for the best pick

Sadie and I picked berries last year at GJ Farm out in Richmond (call 604-272-4033 for availability) but typically they are open from 9 - 6 daily. We got there early in the morning to beat the summer sun and spent a solid hour picking the 1 pound minimum. I'm sure we could have reached a pound more quickly if Sadie spent more time pickin' and less time eatin'.

Strawberry bushes are prickly and the little guys like to sit deep inside so bring gardening gloves if you have delicate hands. The grounds were packed dirt so any shoe would do but I would leave the flip flops at home, there are lots of things to trip on! And don't forget your muscles...the pickins can get heavy.

Here is a list of farms in the Lower Mainland that offer U Pick. Call ahead for hours and berry availability. If you don't want to pick the berries yourself these farms also have them for sale by the box. Leave the plastic at home as most are cash only.

DFG Blueberries

11071 Blundell Road, Richmond

604-273-5829

Email: [email protected]

Cherry Lane Farms

9571 Beckwith Road, Richmond

778-833-3379

Email: [email protected]

GS Farm

11400 No. 4 Road, Richmond

604-454-4411

Maan Farms