U Pick Farms in Nevada

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The Real Nevada Story

Nevada farming began with Native Americans who gathered pine nuts and other desert plants. European settlers discovered that some valleys had water and soil good for farming despite the desert climate. Nevada farmers learned to grow crops that could handle hot, dry conditions and cold winters. The state became known for growing hay, onions, and other crops using irrigation from mountain snowmelt.

Nevada's Special Growing Areas

Nevada is mostly desert, but mountain valleys have water and soil that can support farming with irrigation. The Sierra Nevada mountains provide snowmelt water that farmers use to grow crops in the desert. Northern Nevada has cooler temperatures and more water than the south. Most farming happens in valleys where water is available from rivers or underground sources.

What You Can Pick and When

Nevada grows good onions and garlic in the desert valleys, usually harvested in fall. You can pick grapes in some areas where vineyards have been planted in suitable valleys. Pine nuts from piñon pine trees can be gathered in the mountains in good years. Some farms near Reno and Las Vegas grow apples, pears, and other fruits that visitors can pick.

Planning Your Nevada Farm Visit

Fall and spring are the best times to visit Nevada farms when temperatures are comfortable for being outdoors. Summer can be extremely hot, especially in southern Nevada. Many farms are small operations in mountain valleys with beautiful scenery. Bring lots of water and sun protection because desert conditions can be harsh even when temperatures seem reasonable.