The Joy of Picking Strawberries: A Family Ritual in the Fields

There’s something almost magical about crouching among rows of low, leafy plants, your fingers brushing against warm soil as you reach for a ruby-red strawberry glistening in the sun. The scent of ripening fruit floats in the air — sweet, earthy, and unmistakably summery.

For many, strawberry picking isn’t just about the fruit — it’s about the moment. Children darting between rows with red-stained fingers, grandparents pointing out the best hiding spots, and families creating a gentle rhythm of conversation and laughter. It’s a way to slow down, be in nature, and connect with the food you eat — and with each other.

If you’ve never picked your own strawberries, this is the season to start.

🍓 How to Pick Strawberries: Ripe, Red, and Ready

When you’re in the field, look for strawberries that are:

  • Deep red all over — they don’t ripen after picking.
  • Shiny, not dull — brightness often means freshness.
  • Firm but not hard — ripe strawberries should feel plump and juicy.

To pick, gently hold the berry and twist or pinch the stem about 1–2 cm above the fruit. Try not to squeeze the berry directly — they bruise easily. Bring a shallow container to keep them in a single layer if possible. Stacking them too deep can crush the ones at the bottom.

Strawberries are delicate, but they’ll reward your care with rich flavor.

🧊 How to Store Strawberries at Home

Strawberries are best eaten within 1–2 days of picking — their peak is short, but glorious.

To make them last a little longer:

  • Do not wash until just before eating.
  • Keep them dry, ideally in a single layer on a paper towel in the fridge.
  • Store in a ventilated container (a colander in a bowl works great).

If they start to soften, use them in smoothies, sauces, or baking — even slightly past their prime, they’re full of flavor.

🍽️ 3 Easy Recipes with Strawberries

  1. Strawberry Basil Salad Mix halved strawberries with arugula, fresh basil, soft goat cheese, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. A refreshing, savory-sweet salad for warm evenings.

  2. No-Cook Strawberry Chia Jam Mash 2 cups of strawberries with 2 tablespoons of chia seeds and a touch of honey. Let sit in the fridge for 30 minutes. Spread on toast or swirl into yogurt.

  3. Strawberry Shortcake Biscuits Classic and comforting. Layer fresh strawberries over crumbly biscuits or scones, top with whipped cream. It’s sunshine on a plate.

🌼 Other Uses for Strawberries

Strawberries aren’t just for eating.

  • Infused Water: Add sliced berries and mint to a pitcher for a refreshing drink.
  • Natural Dessert Garnish: Freeze slices to add to ice cubes or cocktail glasses.
  • Face Mask: Mashed strawberries mixed with yogurt make a simple (and fun) skin refresher.

And of course — a bowl of strawberries, just as they are, eaten outside in the sunshine, might be the best use of all.

Strawberry season only lasts a few weeks, but the memories and the joy it brings can linger all summer long. Whether you come for the fruit, the fun, or the peace of the fields, we hope you’ll make it part of your early summer ritual.

🍓 U-pick locations where you can pick your own strawberries