Pick-Your-Own
(PYO) is an agricultural operation where people harvest crops directly from the fields. This model allows farmers to minimize labor costs while offering visitors an interactive, educational, and family-friendly experience. It fosters a direct connection between consumers and food sources, enhancing transparency and sustainability. PYO farms are typically small to medium sized, growing a variety of fruits, vegetables, flowers. The crops available in a PYO farm vary depending on the region, climate, and time of year.
Common Crops
Strawberries
One of the most popular PYO crops, strawberries are available in late spring and early summer, typically from May to June.
Blueberries
Peak season ranges from June to August.
Raspberries & Blackberries
These are usually available starting in July.
Apples
Apples are a quintessential PYO crop. They are typically harvested from late August to October, with some varieties lasting into November.
Peaches & Nectarines
These stone fruits ripen in mid to late summer, generally from July to August.
Cherries
Cherries have a shorter picking season, usually in June or early July.
Pumpkins
Pumpkin picking is a classic fall activity, with the harvest season running from late September to October.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are usually ready to be picked from July to September.
Sweet Corn
Sweet corn peaks in mid-summer, from July through August.
Peppers, Cucumbers & Zucchini
These vegetables thrive in warm weather and are typically available in the summer months.
Benefits for Farmer
Reduce Labor Costs
Customers do much of the harvesting work, reducing the
need for additional workers.
Direct Marketing
PYO farms cut out the middleman, increasing profit margins.
Customer Engagement
PYO farms create a memorable experience, fostering customer loyalty.
Reduced Waste
Customers often choose crops at peak ripeness, eading to less post-harvest waste.
Benefits for Customer
Freshness & Quality
Crops are at their peak freshness since customers select them directly from the field.
Experience
It’s a fun, hands-on activity for individuals, families, and school groups.
Cost Savings
Prices per pound or per bushel are often lower than grocery store prices.
Education
PYO farms offer an opportunity to learn about agriculture, crop cycles, and sustainability.
Peak Season Considerations
The peak season for a PYO farm varies depending on local growing conditions. operations located in warmer climates might have longer growing seasons, while those in cooler regions experience shorter windows of availability. For many crops, the peak season coincides with school breaks and holidays, making PYO farms popular family destinations in summer and fall. The availability of each crop also depends on the weather, soil conditions, and pest management practices.
Freshness & Quality
Crops are at their peak freshness since customers select them directly from the field.
Direct Marketing
It’s a fun, hands-on activity for individuals, families, and school groups.
Cost Saving
Prices per pound or per bushel are often lower than grocery store prices.
Education
PYO farms offer an opportunity to learn about agriculture, crop cycles, and sustainability.
Benefits for Customer
Peak Season Considerations
The peak season for a PYO farm varies depending on local growing conditions. operations located in warmer climates might have longer growing seasons, while those in cooler regions experience shorter windows of availability. For many crops, the peak season coincides with school breaks and holidays, making PYO farms popular family destinations in summer and fall. The availability of each crop also depends on the weather, soil conditions, and pest management practices.
