Seasonal U-Pick Guide
Every season brings something different to the fields and orchards of the Finger Lakes. Here’s what you can typically expect throughout the year.
Summer
Summer begins with strawberries and moves into blueberry season, lavender blooms, and cut flowers.
At Embers Rising Farm in Clifton Springs, July is the best time to pick blueberries before stopping by for maple syrup and other farm-made products available throughout the year. Check their social media or call for public U-pick days.
In Honeoye, Aurora Lavender Farm opens its lavender fields for a limited summer season, giving visitors the chance to gather fresh bundles while browsing handcrafted lavender products, honey, maple syrup, and other locally made goods.
Fall
Apple orchards, vineyards, and pumpkin patches take center stage from late August through October.
Jerome’s U-Pick in Naples has multiple grape varieties available for staggering seasonal harvests from their vineyards, all while immersed in the Naples Valley fall foliage display. Don’t miss trying out the famous FLX grape pie!
In Stanley, Pick’n Patch combines apple picking with pumpkins, corn mazes, farm animals, and seasonal attractions during its annual fall festival.
Great Brook Apple Farm in Victor offers apple picking among rows of orchard trees, making it a simple way to enjoy the flavors and scenery of the fall season.
Winter
While winter doesn’t bear too many fruits in the region, you can still hand-pick nature’s seasonal offerings.
Embers Rising Farm has Christmas trees during the winter months, along with maple products that remain available after the growing season ends.
In Naples, Hanggi's Tree Farm offers Christmas trees and visits with reindeer, adding a festive touch to the season.
Spring
Arrange some early-season blooms from Trademarks Flower Farm in Clifton Springs. While not strictly U-pick, you can find their flower stand at the Rochester Farmers Market or ensure steady fresh blooms via their CSA bouquet subscriptions.
Seasonal Harvest Snapshot
|
Season |
What to Pick |
Where to Go |
|
Summer |
Strawberries, blueberries, lavender, cut flowers |
Embers Rising Farm (Clifton Springs), Aurora Lavender Farm (Honeoye) |
|
Fall |
Grapes, apples, pumpkins |
Jerome's U-Pick (Naples), Pick'n Patch (Stanley) |
|
Winter |
Christmas trees |
Embers Rising Farm (Clifton Springs) |
|
Spring |
Seasonal flowers and blooms |
Trademarks Flower Farm (Clifton Springs) |
Plan Your Visit
Before heading out, check current picking conditions, as harvest schedules depend on weather and crop availability.
Some farms require reservations or recommend calling ahead, particularly during busy weekends or limited harvest windows.
It’s also worth confirming hours, payment options, accessibility information, container policies, and pet rules before you arrive. Comfortable shoes are recommended since most picking takes place in fields, orchards, or vineyards.
Explore More Farm Experiences
Round out your visit by browsing local farmers markets, meeting animals on working farms, or exploring more agricultural experiences across the Finger Lakes. Seasonal harvests are only one part of the region’s farm culture, and every stop offers another way to connect with the people growing food throughout the year.
For apple lovers a visit around the annual Wayne County Apple Tasting Tour is a must; it celebrates local orchards, apple varieties, and seasonal flavors across the region.
