fruit enthusiasts! Are you on the hunt for a sweet and fun-filled activity in Tampa? Look no further than strawberry picking season, which is now in full swing!
Get ready to soak up the sun, slather on some sunscreen, and head on over to one of the many U-pick farms in the area for a day of outdoor fun and strawberry indulgence.
There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh-picked, juicy strawberries straight from the vine. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss, and it’s the perfect way to support local farmers while enjoying some quality time with loved ones.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your baskets and get ready to make some unforgettable memories—and maybe even whip up a delicious strawberry shortcake to top it all off! Don’t miss out on the best farms for strawberry picking in Tampa!
Florida’s strawberry season typically runs from December through March, with peak harvests occurring in February and March.
This four-month window offers ample opportunities for residents and tourists alike to enjoy the succulent, sun-ripened fruit.
The state’s unique climate provides the perfect conditions for strawberry cultivation, ensuring a bountiful and consistent harvest each year.
Florida’s strawberry season coincides with the winter months in most parts of the United States, making it a popular destination for those seeking fresh, juicy strawberries when they are unavailable or out of season in other regions.
Best Strawberry Farms in Tampa
Strawberry Passion/Passion Organic Farm
- Address: 11740 Tom Folsom Rd, Thonotosassa, FL 33592, United States
- Website: https://m.facebook.com/100064876440856/
Favorite Farms, Inc.
- Address: 10070 McIntosh Rd, Dover, FL 33527, United States
- Website: http://favoritefarms.net/
Spivey Farms
- Address: 6101 S County Rd 39, Plant City, FL 33567, United States
- Website: http://myspiveyfarms.com/
Upicktopia
- Address: 19125 Phillips Rd #6952, Masaryktown, FL 34604, United States
- Website: http://www.upicktopia.com/
Three Son Farms
- Address: 3830 McIntosh Rd, Dover, FL 33527, United States
- Website: https://m.facebook.com/ThreeSonFarms/
Goodson Farms
- Address: 12405 Co Rd 672, Wimauma, FL 33598, United States
- Website: https://m.facebook.com/GoodsonFarms/
Starkey Blueberry Farm
- Address: 10730 Lake Blanche Dr, Trinity, FL 34655, United States
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/starkeyblueberryfarm/
Cost of Strawberry Picking in Tampa
The cost of strawberry picking in Tampa can vary depending on the farm and the season. Typically, you can expect to pay between $2 and $5 per pound of strawberries that you pick.
Some farms may also charge an entrance fee, ranging from $1 to $5 per person. It is important to check with the specific farm you plan to visit for their current pricing and any additional fees.
In addition to the cost of the strawberries themselves, you might also want to factor in any additional expenses such as travel, parking, and food or drinks available for purchase at the farm. Remember to bring your own containers or bags for collecting the strawberries, as some farms may charge extra for providing them.
Always call ahead or visit the farm’s website to confirm the latest pricing and availability before planning your strawberry picking adventure in Florida.
Tips for Strawberry Picking
Strawberry picking is a fun and enjoyable activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Here are some tips to make your strawberry picking experience in Florida a success:
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
- Apply sunscreen and bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Bring a basket or container to hold your strawberries.
- Check with the farm before you go to make sure they are open and have strawberries available for picking.
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
When picking strawberries:
- Look for bright red strawberries that are firm to the touch.
- Check the bottom of the strawberry to make sure it is not moldy or rotten.
- Use a gentle twisting motion to remove the strawberry from the plant.
- Avoid picking strawberries with white or green tips, as they are not fully ripe.
After you have finished picking strawberries:
- Pay for your strawberries at the farm stand or designated area.
- Wash your strawberries thoroughly before eating or using them in recipes.
- Store your strawberries in the refrigerator and eat them within a few days.
By following these tips, you can have a successful and enjoyable strawberry picking experience in Florida.
Florida strawberry festivals
There are several popular strawberry festivals held in Florida, celebrating the state’s bountiful strawberry harvest. Some of the most well-known festivals include:
Florida Strawberry Festival
Held annually in Plant City, the Florida Strawberry Festival is one of the largest and most famous strawberry events in the state.
The festival typically takes place over 11 days in late February or early March, featuring live music, entertainment, carnival rides, food vendors, and plenty of delicious strawberry treats.
Pasco County Strawberry Festival
This family-friendly event is held in March in Dade City, Pasco County. Visitors can enjoy arts and crafts vendors, live music, a car show, and, of course, plenty of strawberry-based foods and drinks.
Strawberry Fest at Peddler’s Village
Located in St. Augustine, the Strawberry Fest at Peddler’s Village takes place in March. This charming festival offers a range of strawberry-themed activities, including a strawberry-eating contest, strawberry cooking demonstrations, and plenty of
Strawberry Picking Near By Cities
- Strawberry Picking in Orlando
- Strawberry Picking in Jacksonville FL
- Strawberry Picking in Plant City
Strawberry Picking FAQs
What should I wear when strawberry picking?
It’s best to wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes when strawberry picking. Avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops as the ground may be uneven, and it could be muddy in the fields. You may also want to consider wearing a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
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How do I know which strawberries are ripe and ready to pick?
Look for strawberries that are fully red and plump, with no green or white patches. The berries should be firm and shiny, with no signs of bruising or mold. Gently tug on the stem to see if it easily separates from the plant, indicating that the berry is ripe and ready to pick.
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Can I bring my own containers to collect the strawberries?
Most farms allow visitors to bring their own containers for picking strawberries. Check with the farm before your visit to confirm their policy. You may also be able to purchase containers at the farm if you don’t have your own.
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Do I need to make a reservation to go strawberry picking?
It depends on the farm. Some farms require reservations, especially during peak season, to ensure that there is enough space and berries for everyone. Check with the farm before your visit to confirm their policy and to make a reservation if necessary.
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Can I eat the strawberries while picking them?
It’s generally not recommended to eat strawberries while picking them. You should wait until you get home and wash the berries thoroughly before consuming them. Eating unwashed strawberries could potentially expose you to harmful bacteria or pesticides that may be present on the fruit.
