U Pick Farms in Wisconsin

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The Real Wisconsin Story

Wisconsin farming began with Native Americans who grew corn, beans, and squash and gathered wild rice in the northern lakes. European settlers discovered that Wisconsin's climate and soil were perfect for dairy farming, and the state became known as America's Dairyland. Wisconsin also became famous for growing cranberries in natural bogs and for producing more cheese than any other state. German and Scandinavian immigrants brought farming techniques that worked well in Wisconsin's climate.

Wisconsin's Special Growing Areas

Wisconsin has rich soil from glaciers and prairies that's perfect for growing hay, corn, and other crops to feed dairy cows. The northern part of the state has forests, lakes, and sandy soil that's perfect for cranberries. Door County has a climate moderated by Lake Michigan that's great for cherries and apples. The state gets enough rain and has cold winters that help control pests and diseases.

What You Can Pick and When

Wisconsin cranberries are ready to harvest in September and October when the bogs are flooded and the berries float to the surface. You can pick apples in Door County from September through November when lake breezes make them especially crisp and flavorful. Cherries ripen in July when Door County orchards produce sweet, juicy fruit. Some farms also grow strawberries, pumpkins, and other crops that visitors can harvest.

Planning Your Wisconsin Farm Visit

Fall is the best time to visit Wisconsin farms when cranberries and apples are ready and the weather is comfortable. Summer is great for cherry picking in Door County with beautiful lake views. Winter is too cold for most farm visits, but some farms offer tours of cheese-making and other indoor activities. Wisconsin farms often combine crop growing with dairy farming and cheese production.