U Pick Farms in Kentucky

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The Real Kentucky Story

Kentucky farming started with Native Americans who grew corn, beans, and squash in the river valleys. European settlers brought horses and cattle and discovered that Kentucky's bluegrass was perfect for raising horses. Tobacco became very important in Kentucky, and farmers learned special ways to grow and cure it. Kentucky also became famous for corn that gets made into bourbon whiskey and for growing great apples and vegetables.

Kentucky's Special Growing Areas

Kentucky has rolling hills and valleys with rich soil that's perfect for growing many different crops. The famous bluegrass region has limestone underneath that makes the soil especially good for growing grass and feeding horses. Eastern Kentucky has mountains and cooler weather, while western Kentucky is flatter and warmer. Kentucky gets enough rain to grow crops without much irrigation.

What You Can Pick and When

Kentucky apples are ready to pick from August through October, with many orchards in the rolling hills and mountains. You can pick strawberries in May and June when they're sweet and perfect for making shortcake. Blackberries ripen in July and August and grow wild along fence rows and forest edges. Kentucky also grows great tomatoes and peppers that are ready to pick in summer.

Planning Your Kentucky Farm Visit

Spring through fall are good times to visit Kentucky farms, with different crops ready at different times of the year. Summer can be hot and humid, so early morning or late afternoon visits are more comfortable. Fall is beautiful in Kentucky when the leaves are changing and apples are ripe. Many farms are in scenic areas with rolling hills and horse pastures nearby.