U-Pick flower farms can be fun for garden lovers of all ages, but there are rules to keep in mind! Here's what to know before you visit.
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Show Up Without Reservations
Some farms might allow walk-ins, but others require advance bookings in order to make sure there are enough flowers for everyone (and for the rest of the season). If you’re considering a trip to a U-Pick flower farm, take a few moments to see whether you can walk in. If not, you’ll need to select a day and time to go to the fields.
U-Pick farms booked for the season? You can grow these flowers for a cutting garden at home.
Uproot Flowering Plants
This should go without saying, but if you’re at a U-Pick flower farm, it’s best to operate by the rules. In most cases, one of those rules will be to cut, rather than uproot, the plants. An uprooted plant can’t grow back, which reduces the number of flowers that can grow in later seasons. Be sure to follow instructions and cut the stems, not uproot.
Floral scent lovers will love to grow these fragrant flowers.
Bring Pets (Unless Allowed)
Hey, we get it. These days, you’d like to bring your furry friend everywhere; the park, the grocery store, restaurants. That said, it’s likely a U-Pick farm won’t permit your four-legged friends. Dogs can pose a risk to the blooms if they start digging, or if they take off running after a squirrel. Also, some flowering plants, including lilies and tulips, may be toxic to pets.
Every farm’s policy is different, however. If you’re not sure whether you’ll be able to take Fido on a day of flower-picking, we recommend giving the farm a call or taking a look online to better understand the farm’s rules.
Trample the Flowers or Walk Off the Paths
If you shouldn’t be uprooting plants, then you also definitely shouldn’t be trampling. An accidental stumble is one thing, but if you’re stomping on flowers, you’re also stomping on someone’s hard work — and you’re reducing the amount of money the farm can make for the year. It’s a good idea to keep an eye on any little ones or animals within your party to make sure everyone’s staying on paths and respecting the beauty of the blooms.
Do Unauthorized Photoshoots
A flower farm is the perfect backdrop for engagement photos or family portraits… if you’ve gotten permission. Unauthorized professional photoshoots, however, are against the rules at most U-Pick farms. Some farms have their own photography studios and will book times for groups to come by. Others outright ban professional photography, and if that’s the case, you’ll be expected to abide by those rules.
On the other hand, most farms allow non-professional photography, so you’d probably be able to snap a few shots with your cell phone. Since these rules vary, check photography policies before you go.
What You Should Do at a U-Pick Flower Farm
Now that we’ve covered what not to do, here are a few good ideas that’ll help you make the most of your U-Pick adventure.
Bring bug spray and sunscreen. Especially during summer months, pests can be a problem. Bug spray can help keep everyone from dealing with unpleasant, uninvited guests (although we’d advise not swatting at helpful pollinators). In addition, bring along sunscreen to minimize the risk of painful burns. Hats and sunglasses are a good idea, too.
Wear comfortable shoes. As with any pick-it-yourself adventure, U-Pick flower farms usually require a decent amount of walking and the terrain could be uneven. If you’re wearing your most fashionable shoes, they might not be the most comfortable. It’s always best to wear comfortable closed-toe shoes with good support.
Bring clippers and a vase. Some farms will provide clippers and a container or vase for your cut flowers, but it’s best not to assume. Call ahead or check the website to see what will be provided for customers. Keep in mind that at some farms, children under a certain age may not be allowed to cut the flowers for liability reasons.
Know what payment methods are accepted. Some farms may not accept credit card payments, while others might not accept cash, checks, or digital payments. If you’re not required to pay online in advance, bring multiple options to cover the cost, or check ahead of time to see which payment methods the farm honors.
Have fun! U-Pick flower farms are a delight for nature lovers, bloom enthusiasts, families, and even those looking to get outside for some fresh air. The policies aren’t difficult to follow, and with some common sense, you’ll embark on a delightful excursion that just might become a yearly tradition.
