It’s hard to believe that there’s only one more weekend before the three-day Labor Day weekend, and of course, school starting. But don’t despair – there’s still time to enjoy some of Long Island’s natural bounty this summer…and fall!
Long Island’s Suffolk County is home to a number of family-operated farms offering pick your own fruits and vegetables. With this year’s warm winter, early spring and early summer, some of the crops were tricked into thinking it was time to blossom early – and then suffered due to cool temperatures in May. Due to these weather patterns, many of this year’s crops have been early, so although apple picking is usually in full swing in late September into October, think apples early so you don’t miss out!
An hour or two in the car can get you to some great Long Island farms and orchards where your family can enjoy picking them own fruits and vegetables. It is recommended that you contact the farm before visiting to double check exact locations, what crops are available and when the orchard is open each day.
Davis Peach Farm – Wading River, 631-929-1115 - peaches, plums, squash, tomatoes, lettuce and leafy greens, plus fresh baked fruit pies, fig trees, preserves and more. Call for availability.
Fort Salonga Farm – Northport, 631-269-9666 - apples are scheduled to start in early September. Call for details.
Lewin Farm – Wading River, 631-929-4327 - tomatoes, peppers and eggplant late August-October, apples and pumpkins September-October. Call for availability.
Hank’s Pumpkintown - Watermill, 631-726-4667 - apple and pumpkin picking, tours, corn maze, roasted corn and more. Call for availability.
Harbes Farm & Vineyard – Mattituck, (631) 298-0800, Jamesport (631) 722-2022 - Fall raspberries available late August-September, plus mazes and family fun farm activities. Call for availability and details.
Sure, you could go to the supermarket and purchase apples and pears. But think about how much more fun the kids will have picking fresh fruit off the trees, or choosing the perfect pumpkin from a real pumpkin patch, rather than a pile in the store. And by taking a short day trip out to a Long Island farm, you help support some of the island’s valuable and distinctive attractions.
Visit www.handmadelongisland.com/longislandlocal for more information on everything Long Island!
