How To Enjoy Strawberry Picking in Memphis Farms This Season
This guide has got you covered with everything you need for an awesome strawberry-picking adventure in Memphis from picking the perfect farm to great ideas for what to do once you have filled your basket.
- Discover the best farms around Memphis where you can pick your own strawberries including family-friendly spots and insider tips on when the berries are sweetest.
- Grab handy packing advice to make your day out among the rows comfy and enjoyable because no one wants blisters or sunburn stealing the fun.
- Master the art of picking strawberries with easy steps that help you gather the juiciest fruit while being kind to the plants—think berry-picking with a gentle touch.
- Uncover fun ways to stretch your visit beyond picking—farm tours, tasting local goodies, and exploring nearby Memphis gems add extra flavor to your day.
Strawberry picking at Memphis farms is one of those simple seasonal joys that blends fresh air and tasty fruit in perfect harmony. Thanks to its mild climate and rich soil, Memphis boasts some of the best strawberry fields you’ll find around. These fields welcome families, couples and solo adventurers alike. Swinging by local farms not only supports community agriculture but also provides a lively educational experience with plenty of smiles along the way.
This straightforward guide will help you track down the best strawberry picking farms in Memphis and tip you off on what to bring along. It also shares some handy picking tricks.
How to Track Down the Best Strawberry Picking Memphis Farms
When it comes to hunting down the best strawberry picking farms around Memphis, getting your timing right and knowing which spots have a good rep really makes all the difference. Most farms swing their gates open from late March to early June, though Mother Nature tends to call the shots on the exact dates. I’ve found it pays off to do a little online digging to find places that let you roll up your sleeves and pick your own strawberries straight from the patch. Don’t forget to peek at customer reviews—they often spill the beans on the quality and overall vibe of the place.
| Farm Name | Location | Opening Dates | Picking Hours | Admission Fees | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shelby Berry Farm | Arlington, TN | March 25 - June 10 | 8 AM - 6 PM | $5 per person | Relaxing picnic area, charming farm market |
| Harvest Moon Farms | Memphis, TN | April 1 - June 5 | 9 AM - 5 PM | $7 per person | Delightful petting zoo, fun-filled playground |
| Riverbend Strawberries | Lakeland, TN | March 30 - May 30 | 7 AM - 7 PM | $6 per person | Cozy farm store, insightful guided tours |
| Sunny Acres Farm | Collierville, TN | April 10 - June 1 | 10 AM - 4 PM | $4 per person | Freshly squeezed juice stand, creative crafts corner |
| Greenfield Strawberry Patch | Memphis, TN | March 28 - June 8 | 8 AM - 6 PM | Donation-based | Quaint farm cafe, perfect photography spots |
Picking the right farm usually depends on your group's size and what you enjoy. Families with kids often choose farms that have petting zoos or playgrounds because those keep the little rascals happily occupied. Larger groups often prefer farms with plenty of parking and shady picnic spots to relax in. They also want easy restroom access since nobody wants a wild goose chase when nature calls. Accessibility is also important to consider. Some farms go above and beyond with wheelchair-friendly paths or stroller rentals, making the whole experience smoother for everyone.
Getting Ready for Your Strawberry Picking Adventure
- Pack sunscreen and hats to keep the relentless sun at bay.
- Opt for comfy clothes and sturdy shoes fit for tromping through fields without a fuss.
- Bring any containers or baskets the farm allows for gathering juicy strawberries.
- Carry plenty of water to stay refreshed and avoid getting parched while you wander.
- Keep some cash or cards within easy reach for admission fees, tasty treats or farm-fresh goodies you can’t resist.
- Grab a camera or your smartphone because those sweet picking moments deserve to be snapped and savored.
Farms around Memphis tend to showcase a mix of terrain from soft welcoming soil to gentle slopes that keep you on your toes. It’s smart to dress in breathable layers especially during crisp mornings when the chill lingers but the day can flip its mood without warning.
When you’re visiting with kids or a crowd it’s a lifesaver to lay out the ground rules upfront—things like picking gently and sticking to the marked paths. Packing snacks and water, and maybe a fold-up chair or two usually keeps everyone happy and fueled.
A Friendly Guide to Picking Strawberries (Without Losing Your Mind)
Try to arrive early—it’s the best way to nab prime picking spots and avoid the later crowds.
Swing by the farm office or main entrance to grab your ticket and get any tips you need to start.
Keep an eye out for strawberry plants with firm deep red berries that look plump—nothing beats that ripe look.
Gently hold the stem just above the berry and use your thumb and forefinger to snap it off cleanly. Try not to be too rough; the plant will thank you.
Tuck your strawberries carefully into your containers and avoid overfilling. There’s nothing sadder than crushed fruit ruining your haul.
Once you’re all picked, be sure to swing by the farm stand or market to treat yourself to some strawberry preserves, jams and other local goodies before you hit the road.
Try to steer clear of berries that are underripe or a bit too soft, as they tend to spoil on you faster than you would like. Also, it’s a good idea not to yank the berries off too forcefully doing so can mess with future crops and end up shrinking your yield.
Farm staff are truly invaluable people. Don’t hesitate to pick their brains for tips on the best picking techniques or which rows are ripe and ready. You can also ask about any quirky farm rules you should keep in mind. Their guidance can genuinely make your experience smoother.
A family enjoying strawberry picking at a Memphis farm, showcasing ripe strawberries and a vibrant outdoor atmosphere
How to Get the Most Out of Your Strawberry Picking Day (Without Ending up Covered in Juice)
- Take a farm tour to see firsthand how strawberries are grown and get a real feel for sustainable farming practices close to nature’s heart.
- Treat yourself to fresh strawberry delights like homemade jams, pies or smoothies, all available right at the farm market where the flavors practically jump off the shelves.
- Dive into special farm events like lively festivals or hands-on workshops that add extra fun to your visit, including charming children’s activities.
- Explore nearby Memphis gems from peaceful local parks and intriguing museums to cozy restaurants that round out your day perfectly.
Pack a picnic brimming with strawberry-themed goodies to savor in the farm's cozy picnic area. And if you feel like continuing the strawberry adventure, a local Memphis restaurant often whips up seasonal dishes starring these sweet gems
Fresh strawberries hit their peak flavor when eaten soon after picking. If life gets busy you can stash them in the fridge for up to three days without much loss. To stretch out that sweet joy longer, whip up some homemade strawberry jam, toss them into salads or desserts or freeze them for smoothies.
Important Tips for Staying Safe and Healthy While Picking Strawberries (Because Nobody Wants a Day Ruined by a Rash or a Bug Bite)
- Make sure to give those strawberries a good rinse under cold water before digging in. It is the easiest way to wash off dirt and any sneaky pesticides lurking about.
- If someone in your group tends to break out or react to pollen or insect bites, it’s a good idea to come prepared with the right allergy meds because it is better to be safe than sorry.
- Slather on sunscreen and don a hat if you’re planning to soak up the sun for a while. Your future self will thank you for the heads-up.
- Don’t forget insect repellent since it’s your best friend against mosquitoes and all those other tiny farm field nuisances eager for a snack.
- Keep the water flowing because staying hydrated is key especially when the sun cranks up the heat. You don’t want to feel drained or dizzy out there.
When strawberry picking Memphis farms, sticking to safety guidelines like staying within the designated picking areas and avoiding running around keeps everyone safe and helps protect the farm environment for those who will enjoy it later.
