U Pick Farms in North Carolina

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The Real North Carolina Story

North Carolina farming began with Native Americans who grew corn, beans, and squash in the river valleys and coastal areas. European settlers brought tobacco farming, which became very important to the state's history and economy. North Carolina farmers also learned to grow sweet potatoes in the sandy coastal soil, and the state now grows more sweet potatoes than any other. The mountains, piedmont, and coastal plain each developed different types of farming.

North Carolina's Special Growing Areas

North Carolina has three main regions with different soils and climates perfect for different crops. The mountains are cool with good soil for apples and Christmas trees. The piedmont in the middle has rolling hills good for tobacco and other crops. The coastal plain has sandy soil that's perfect for sweet potatoes, strawberries, and other crops.

What You Can Pick and When

North Carolina strawberries are ready to pick from April through June when they're sweet and perfect for making jam. You can pick apples in the mountains from September through November when the cool weather makes them crisp and flavorful. Sweet potatoes are harvested in fall, and some farms let visitors help dig them up. The state also grows great blueberries, peaches, and other fruits.

Planning Your North Carolina Farm Visit

Spring and fall are the best times to visit North Carolina farms when strawberries and apples are ripe and the weather is comfortable. Summer can be hot and humid, especially in the coastal and piedmont areas. Mountain farms are cooler and offer beautiful scenery along with apple picking. Many farms offer tours and tastings of local specialties like sweet potato products and apple cider.