2014 berry crop outlook

Three new raspberry varieties will be available for picking at Highland Valley Farm this season.  I have been amazed at the vigor of the new planting.  Only in its second season, the field has set a good crop for this year. Picking will be limited as the field  is still establishing (normally three seasons are required from planting for full production) and the ripening periods will be staggered--Nova fruiting early in the season and Taylor and Royalty fruiting later.  There should be some overlap in the middle of the season when all three varieties will be picking.  For those of you who can be accommodated, picking will be excellent.  Plan to come early in the day as likely we will be picked out by noon on those days the field can be open.   

The first picking will be on Saturday, July 26 and then open again for picking on Tuesday, July 29.  We hope to be open for raspberry picking at least three days per week.  The season will last about four weeks.  Check our "Current Information" page for daily updates.

The Blueberry crop will be heavy.  With little to no winter injury on most varieties, ideal moisture, and perfect early growing conditions, our blueberry bushes have never been more vigorous.  Fruit-set on Chippewa, our primary pick-your-own block, is particularly  heavy.

August IS the blueberry month at Highland Valley Farm.   We will open for blueberry picking beginning Saturday, August 2, one week later than predicted in our annual newsletter. Every effort will be made to be open six days per week--Tuesday through Sunday, however weather or management issues can always interrupt this schedule.  Be sure to check for daily updates on our "Current Information" page on this website before making the trip to the farm.

The "kids" are doing a great job again this season managing the crops.  The organic fertilizer program has been a great success. Audits from Food Alliance for our sustainable farming program, and the USDA for "safe food" and farming practices, passed with high marks.