Cherry Picking in CT: The Ultimate Guide to the Sweetest Spots

Introduction: Connecticut's Cherry Picking Paradise

With over 1,000 acres of cherry orchards boasting more than 100 varieties, Connecticut is a cherry picking haven, attracting enthusiasts from far and wide. From sweet to tart, juicy to firm, there's a cherry to suit every taste.

10 Essential Tips for Cherry Picking Success

1. Plan ahead: Choose a farm that aligns with your preferences (organic, traditional, etc.) and call or check their website for availability and hours.
2. Time it right: Peak cherry picking season typically spans from mid-June to mid-July, but varies depending on the variety and weather conditions.
3. Bring company: Cherry picking is more fun with family and friends. Consider making it a picnic or social outing.
4. Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and clothing that can withstand thorns and morning dew.
5. Bring containers: Pickers must provide their own containers. Baskets and buckets are recommended for easier carrying.
6. Inspect cherries: Choose cherries that are plump, firm, and free of blemishes. Avoid cherries with bird pecks or signs of disease.
7. Pick selectively: Gently twist and pull cherries from the stems, avoiding damage to the fruit or trees.
8. Respect the orchards: Stay within designated picking areas and avoid damaging branches or trees.
9. Pay by weight: Most farms charge by the pound, so factor in the weight of your containers.
10. Enjoy the sweetness: Savor the taste of fresh, locally-grown cherries right on the spot or take them home to create delectable treats.

9 Picturesque Cherry Picking Farms in Connecticut

1. Bartlett's Orchard (East Granby): Boasting 30 varieties and a pick-your-own option.
2. Cherry Hill Orchards (Middlefield): Home to 100+ acres of cherries, offering a panoramic orchard view.
3. Drummer Boy Farm (Stowe): Features a 10-acre orchard, farm animals, and a picnic area.
4. Ellsworth Hill Orchard & Cidery (Ellington): Known for its diverse selection of cherry varieties and hard cider.
5. Glastonbury Meadows Organic Farm (Glastonbury): Offers a certified organic cherry picking experience.
6. Jones Family Farm (Shelton): A family-owned farm with a pick-your-own orchard and barnyard animals.
7. Lyman Orchards (Middlefield): A renowned cherry picking destination, known for its cherry pie festival.
8. Owen's Tree Farm (Ansonia): Features a pick-your-own orchard, wagon rides, and a children's playground.
9. Scott's Yankee Farmer (East Hampton): Provides cherry picking, tractor rides, and a farm market.

Cherry Varieties: A Flavorful Odyssey

Sweet Cherries

• Bing: Large, dark red, ultra-sweet
• Lambert: Large, mahogany-colored, very sweet
• Rainier: Large, golden-yellow, honey-sweet

Tart Cherries

• Montmorency: Small, bright red, tart and tangy
• Morello: Dark red, tart and astringent
• Balaton: Medium-sized, red, tart and juicy

Cherry Health Benefits: A Natural Wonder

Cherries offer a plethora of health benefits, including:

• Antioxidants: Cherries are rich in antioxidants, which protect cells from damage and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Cherries contain phytonutrients that have anti-inflammatory effects, reducing pain and inflammation.
• Improved sleep: Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that promotes restful sleep.
• Lower blood pressure: Cherries have been shown to lower blood pressure in some individuals.

Cherry Culinary Delights: Sweet Sensations

Cherries are incredibly versatile in the kitchen, inspiring a range of culinary creations.

• Fresh eating: Enjoy cherries as a refreshing snack or in salads and fruit platters.
• Pies and tarts: Cherries make delicious fillings for classic pies and tarts.
• Cobblers and crisps: Create warm and comforting desserts with cherry cobblers and crisps.
• Chutneys and sauces: Cherries add a sweet and tangy flavor to chutneys and sauces.
• Smoothies and juices: Puree cherries into smoothies and juices for a refreshing and nutritious treat.

Cherry Innovation: Sweet Solutions for Modern Challenges

Alongside their traditional uses, cherries are also being explored for innovative applications in various fields.

• Biodegradable packaging: Cherry pits can be transformed into a natural and biodegradable packaging material.
• Medical imaging: Cherry-derived compounds show promise as contrast agents for medical imaging.
• Industrial dyes: Cherry skins can be used as natural dyes in the textile industry.

Cherry Picking Economics: A Growing Industry

The cherry picking industry in Connecticut contributes significantly to the state's economy. In 2022, the industry generated:

• $15 million in revenue: Sales of cherries for both commercial and personal use.
• 1,000 jobs: Employment opportunities on cherry farms and related businesses.
• $3 million in tourism: Cherry picking farms attract visitors from across the region.

Cherry Picking Etiquette: A Respectful Approach

To ensure a pleasant and respectful cherry picking experience:

• Follow farm rules: Adhere to designated picking areas and avoid damaging trees or orchards.
• Respect other pickers: Allow others to have their turn and avoid crowding around trees.
• Dispose of waste responsibly: Use designated trash cans or take your litter home.
• Pay fairly: Pay for all the cherries you pick, even if you don't end up taking them.
• Thank the farmers: Express appreciation to the farmers for their hard work and hospitality.

Cherry Picking Memories: A Lifetime of Sweetness

Whether you're a seasoned cherry picking enthusiast or a first-timer, Connecticut's cherry orchards offer an unforgettable experience. From the intoxicating scent of blossoms in spring to the satisfying crunch of freshly picked cherries, cherry picking creates memories that will last a lifetime.