Strawberry Season Kicks Off in Southwest Michigan
SOUTH HAVEN, MI – June isn’t just about warmer weather; it’s also the much-anticipated strawberry season along Lake Michigan. From early June through the end of the month, berry enthusiasts can indulge in U-pick strawberries at several local farms.
Visitors to these farms should prepare for the warm weather, opting for closed-toed shoes and long pants to protect against bees and potential poison ivy. While some farms provide containers for picking, others may require visitors to bring their own for transporting the juicy fruits home.
Here are six top picks for strawberry-picking in Southwest Michigan:
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Mandingo Farms (61077 41st St, Paw Paw): Open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., this popular spot started its U-pick season on June 7, often closing early due to heavy crowds.
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Earth First Farms (8335 Smith Road, Berrien Center): This certified organic apple orchard began U-picking strawberries on June 6, with expected availability lasting until June 21. The farm welcomes pets under control and offers picnic spots.
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Scherrer’s U-Pick (59119 Champlain Road, Dowagiac and 5118 Hollywood Road, St. Joseph): Family-owned for 40 years, this U-pick operation runs daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Bixby Farms (5745 Pokagon Road, Berrien Springs): Open weekdays from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and weekends until 4 p.m., visitors can enjoy a special strawberry pizza, “The Strawberry Burst,” at a nearby establishment after picking.
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Lehman’s Orchard (2280 Portage Road, Niles): Open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays, farming standards prohibit animals in the fields.
- Stover’s Farm Market (7608 M-139, Berrien Springs): With a U-pick tradition spanning over 30 years, this farm provides free containers and recommends wearing gloves.
Don’t miss out on this delightful season along Michigan’s Great Lakes! For more local activities, check out MLive’s Lakeshore Travel series.
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