As spring and summer rapidly approach, the weather gets noticeably warmer, and outdoor activities immense. With the enjoyable temperatures, outdoor hobbies begin among the flourishing pops of colors from greenery and flowers. Among the beautiful scenery, farms, carnivals and festivals are beginning to open up, welcoming thousands of visitors every season. Many may find themselves wanting to explore these locations, specifically local farms that offer seasonal activities. Starting in the spring, hand picking in-season flowers is a common event that most farms offer, allowing for a memorable experience with a flourishing souvenir. Additionally, Massachusetts is known for its vibrant blooms in the warmer months, guaranteeing most farms to showcase their most beautiful harvests.
One popular, family-friendly farm that welcomes many to hand-pick fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers, as well as hosts corn mazes and yard games, is Wards Berry. Located in Sharon, Mass. roughly 30 minutes away from Boston, Wards is open-year round. Not only does this location have a wide variety of seasonal harvests, but also a Farm Store that offers sandwiches, smoothies and local produce for sale. Starting April 18, Wards began selling tickets for their “Pick Your Own Tulip” event, showcasing over 150,000 tulips. Not only does Wards let people choose their favorite tulips, the tulip fields also offer exquisite views and photo opportunities. Additionally, they offer a specific “photo garden” located in the field displaying the most colorful and vibrant blooms. In addition to picking your own tulips in the spring, Wards offers a summer-long Pick-Your-Own Flower Share, giving members 12 opportunities, at their own pace, to pick their own bouquets, running from June to October. For $200, this membership displays sunflowers, lavender, marigold, zinnia and many more flowers that may be picked from their farm.
Located on an expansive 70-acre lot, Ferjulian’s Farm in Hudson, Mass. has been a family owned business in central Massachusetts for over 85 years. Known for their top quality fruits, vegetables and flowers, Ferjulian’s vibrant selection of flowers is sure to amaze all. With their unique flower-cutting garden, anyone can pick from the designated two-acre hillside containing beautiful flowers specific for pickers. Ferjulian is also loved for their variety of pricing and picking options, depending on how much one wants in their bouquet: $18.82 per mason jar, $75 per basket and $175 per seasonal membership. Their greenhouse, containing hundreds of different types of plants for purchase, also plays a significant part in the farm’s overall appeal. During the winter, perennials, hanging baskets, vegetables, herbs and many more plants are grown so that they’re top quality come spring.
Starting the warm months off by spending time hand-crafting the perfect bouquet with friends and family can be a very enjoyable activity for all ages. Finding local farms that harvest the brightest flowers and the freshest fruits and vegetables can be a way to support small businesses and is sure to get anyone looking forward to the pleasant weather ahead.
