A Guide to Strawberry Picking at Keel Farms: What You Need to Know
It’s that time of year again! The strawberry fields at Keel Farms, the number one U-Pick farm in Tampa, are finally open for picking. The first step before visiting our strawberry fields is to check availability of strawberries on our social media profiles and website. We update in real time so that you can stay up to date on when it is best to visit. Saturdays are usually the best days for picking strawberries while they last.
Whether this year will be the first that you come out to visit, or you’re someone who comes frequently, we have the guide and tips to make the most out of your time strawberry picking at our farm.
Be Gentle
To avoid damaging your strawberries, it’s important to be mindful of how you’re picking them. Hold the berry close to the stem and give a gentle twist to avoid damaging either the fruit or the plant.
Go Early in the Day
Springtime in Florida tends to bring the beginning of hotter temperatures. Morning temperatures are cooler, and the strawberries are fresher before the sun gets too strong, so you may want to consider doing your Tampa strawberry-picking excursion at Keel Farms earlier in the day.
Wear Comfortable Clothing and the Right Shoes
Picking fruit can work up a sweat, and your outfit and shoes matter. Wear clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, a hat for sun protection, and comfortable closed-toe shoes for walking on uneven or muddy ground.
Wear Sunscreen and Stay Hydrated
The Plant City sun can be intense, so drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen before and during your visit to avoid getting fatigued, sunburnt, or not being able to enjoy your time at our Tampa U-Pick farm to your fullest extent.
Watch Where You Step
Without paying attention, it can be easy to accidentally damage growing plants. Make sure to avoid stepping on the black tarps over where plants are still growing.
Use the Containers Provided
Did you know that having a large amount of berries in a container can lead to bruising and spoilage? At Keel Farms, our fruit-picking containers are only $5! They’re also the perfect size for a good produce haul without resulting in too many strawberries lying on top of each other.
Explore Keel Farms
Keel Farms U-Pick fields are open from 10 am until sundown. With so much time to explore, we recommend that, instead of only picking at the entrance, walk further into our 25-acre field where there may be untouched (and potentially even more delicious!) berries.
And after you’ve picked your fill of fresh, home-grown strawberries, you can also continue the fun! We proudly offer plenty of seasonal events, festivals, concerts, and other activities for the whole family! You can also enjoy fresh-made meals at our restaurant or taste a variety of our most popular wines, ciders, and ales. If you’re interested in learning more about our farm, you can also take a tour! No matter what floats your boat, there’s something for everyone at Keel Farms.
Plan Your Visit Today!
One number-one tip to make the most of your Tampa strawberry-picking adventure at Keel Farms is to have fun! Take pictures, act silly, and enjoy all the beauty of Florida’s unique agricultural landscape with us.
To learn more about Keel Farms U-Pick, or to plan your visit today, feel free to give us a call at 813-752-9100. We can’t wait to see you and your loved ones this strawberry season!
