Have you ever been to a u-pick as a child? How exciting to run through the long rows of strawberries or pumpkins or apple trees. Rows and rows as far as the eye could see. There is something really memorable about a place like that. It proves that you do not have to have a garden, or berry patch, or orchard to experience the joy of walking through one.
You may not be ready to start your own orchard. If you are looking for a great day trip, consider visiting one near you. Most orchards have a website that guides you regarding the best times to visit. Many mention what varieties are ready for harvest during a particular month.
Take your time and stroll through. Notice the different shapes and colors of fruit. Collect your favorite variety or a sampling of several.
One of my favorite past times was to collect a variety of apples and sit in our back yard overlooking the creek. Our chocolate lab Katie and I would sample first one apple, and then another. The difference between them was quite surprising. Pink pearl was red fleshed and tangy with berry flavors. Golden Delicious was crunchy and sweet and well, delicious! Old Fashioned Limbertwig tasted complex and wonderful. When I was done I would hurl the core down to the corner of the yard. Katie would dash after it and bring it back to my chair, tail wagging.
Make a visit to the orchard a family affair or consider it a treat just for you.
Here are some Virginia orchards that you may enjoy
