The Incredible Farm in Connecticut Where You Can Pick Buckets of Berries

One of the greatest perks of living in the Nutmeg State is visiting U-pick farms for summertime berries. While several varieties of blueberries and blackberries grow wild, strawberries are harder to come by. Thankfully, there are several amazing farms to pick your own strawberries in Connecticut, all bursting with stock in the heat of summer.

Most U-pick strawberry farms in Connecticut are located in the central and southern regions of the state, and open for business in early June. One of our favorites is Deeply Rooted Farms, a quaint farm tucked away in the small town of Harwinton, Connecticut. It's a local favorite in Litchfield County, and fantastic for families in need of fun outdoor activities this summer. Ready to visit? Here's what to know before you go.

Why This Scenic Strawberry Farm Is the Best in Connecticut

Deeply Rooted Farms is a family-owned farm, founded in 1973, that strives to use sustainable practices to keep the land healthy. This place is best-known for its delicious strawberries, but a variety of other crops are grown throughout the year, including pumpkins, Christmas trees, asparagus, gourds, and winter squash. It makes for a fantastic stop on a weekend trip in Connecticut, and can be visited during almost any season, depending on the fruit, vegetable, or plant you're interested in.

Another reason we think it's one of the best Connecticut farms to visit? The frequent updates from Farmer Jon himself, of course! If you follow Deeply Rooted's Facebook page, you'll get almost daily updates on crop and harvesting conditions from the head farmer, ensuring you get the best quality fruit each time. It's a personal and community-driven touch we love, and one we don't often get when purchasing food nowadays.

Lastly, if you're not up for the adventure of harvesting your own strawberries, pre-picked containers are available for purchase ($12 per quart) starting in June. That said, if you do have time this summer, heading out into the fields to get your own fruit is so much fun.

What to Expect When You Visit This U-Pick Farm

Once you arrive at Deeply Rooted Farms, you'll be greeted with containers for your harvest and a rundown on best picking practices from staff. Instead of paying per pound, you'll pay by container size: Small containers are $15, medium containers are $20, and big boxes are $55, which hold about 12 pounds of strawberries. Then, you'll head to the U-pick area.

The peaceful, tucked-away farm has five acres of strawberries, with several different varieties available to pick. The rows are clearly labeled, easy to walk through, and kids will love how easy they are to pick. Spend as much time as you'd like rummaging through the bushes for the reddest, juiciest berries. Once you've collected your treasures, stop by the farm stand to peruse the farm's handmade goods, or eat a packed lunch in the shade.

Strawberry season typically runs from early June through August or September, but the U-pick days may be limited, so make sure to check the farm's website or Facebook page for more information. Hours and available days may also vary—the farm shuts down on off seasons.

Strawberry Season and Picking Tips

Beyond Deeply Rooted Farms, there are several places where you can pick your own fruit in Connecticut. This includes Brown's Harvest Family Farm in Windsor and Scott's Yankee Farmer in East Lyme, among others. Most have delicious strawberries in the summer.

No matter where you choose to go, make sure you call ahead or check the farm's website to ensure the picking conditions are prime, and that there are enough ripe strawberries to take home. Bring cardboard boxes or bags with you to transport the strawberries home. Most farms, including Deeply Rooted Farms, will provide containers for picking and storing, but always have backups in case.

You'll also want to wear breathable clothing, sturdy shoes, and a hat and sunscreen on particularly hot days. Bring lots of water and snacks with you—Deeply Rooted doesn't sell refreshments.

Bring cash with you, as many small, family-owned farms take cash only or require a separate entrance fee. Leave dogs at home; no pets are allowed at Deeply Rooted. It is, however, kid-friendly, but just make sure they are well-behaved and don't step on strawberry bushes.

Last but not least: Choosing the best berries. Most farms will tell you "the redder, the better," and this is true. This means strawberries will be at peak sweetness and are perfect for jam, jellies, or just as-is. Most U-pick staff will inform you of the best ways to utilize your sweet berry harvest.

Have you visited Deeply Rooted Farms before? If not, this upcoming summer is your chance! Go picking, bring your harvest directly home, or save time to visit other beautiful garden destinations in Connecticut, including the Hollister Garden House in Washington or the Bellamy-Ferriday House Garden in Litchfield County.