Your Comprehensive Guide to Picking Cherries – Parent’s Edition
The world of cherries can be wonderfully exciting for the little ones—and truth be told, for adults too! Imagine spending a sunny day outdoors with your family, mastering the art of cherry picking and treating yourself to some fresh, juicy fruits right from the trees! In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about cherry picking.
Understanding Cherry Varieties
Before you jump into your vehicle and head to the nearest cherry orchard, it’s important to understand that not all cherries are created equal.
1. Sweet Cherries vs Tart Cherries
Two primary types of cherries exist – sweet and tart. Sweet cherries, as the name indicates, are pleasantly sweet and are perfect for eating out of hand. Tart cherries, on the other hand, are more acidic and are best used in cooking, baking, and preserving.
When To Pick Cherries
Timing is everything when it comes to cherry picking. Pick them too early and you’ll end up with hard, sour fruits; pick them too late and they might be overripe.
1. Cherry Season
In general, cherry season depends on the variety and your geographical location, but most cherries are ready for picking in the summer months, typically from late May to early July.
Picking The Right Cherries
1. Color and Firmness
Color is your best friend when picking cherries. Sweet cherries should be deep, shiny, and vibrant whereas sour cherries should have a bright, uniform color. The fruit should be firm but give slightly to the touch.
Remember, cherry picking is a great way to create lovely family memories whilst teaching your kids about nature’s bounty. So go ahead and have a fruitful adventure! Stay tuned for more tips and tricks on how to make your cherry-picking day successful.
How to Properly Pick Cherries
1. Gentle is the Key
When picking cherries, you should be as gentle as possible to prevent any damage to the tree and the fruit itself.
2. Leaving the Stems On
When picked, try keeping the stems on. Cherries with stems last longer and are less likely to get bruised or punctured.
3. The Right Method
Gently grasp the cherry in your hand, lift it upwards, and then twist it around. This will ensure that the stem remains on the fruit but detaches itself from the tree.
Teaching Kids About Cherry Picking
Bringing kids along? Cherry picking can be more than just a fun outdoor activity; it can also be a valuable learning experience for them.
1. Safety First
Make sure that they understand the importance of climbing ladders carefully and not reaching out too far for cherries.
2. Show And Tell
Show them how to identify the right cherries and the proper way to pick them. It can be made into a fun learning game!
Post Cherry-Picking Tips
1. How to Store Cherries
After your successful cherry-picking day, remember that cherries should be stored in a cool place, ideally in the fridge, and consumed within a week.
2. Washing Cherries
Only wash cherries before you’re about to use them, as moisture can lead to mildew.
3. Freezing Cherries
If you’re not ready to use all the cherries yet, consider freezing them. This way, you can enjoy cherry-flavored goodness throughout the year!
Conclusion
Cherry picking can be a marvelous family adventure. With our guide in hand, we hope you’ll have a fantastic cherry-picking season. Now, go and make some delightful cherry-filled memories!
Preparing for a Cherry Picking Adventure: A Guide for Parents
Going cherry picking is a delightful activity for families to enjoy. Not only do you get to spend quality time together, but it’s also a great opportunity to teach your little ones about nature. Here are five important things every parent should know when preparing for this fun-filled outdoor adventure.
1. Best Time to Go Cherry Picking
Cherry season typically runs from late spring to early summer. Check the picking schedule of the farm you plan to visit as timing depends on the cherry variety and region. Remember, it’s always a good idea to call ahead to ensure they’re open and the fruits are ripe and ready for picking.
2. Protect Yourself and Your Children from the Sun
When you’re out in the sun for a prolonged period, it’s important to protect your skin and eyes. Remember to pack sun protection essentials such as broad-spectrum sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and breathable clothing. Also, provide plenty of water to keep everyone hydrated.
3. Teach Kids How to Pick Cherries Properly
It’s not just about plucking off any cherry from the tree. Teach your children to gently squeeze the cherries – if they’re firm but not hard, they’re ready to be picked. Also, remind them that cherries should be picked with the stalks on to keep them fresh for longer.
4. Bring Suitable Containers
Cherries are delicate and can easily be bruised. A shallow container or a basket is ideal for preventing the piled cherries from squashing those at the bottom. Some farms provide containers but it’s always good to bring your own just in case.
5. Check Farm Policies and Follow Them
Every farm has its own rules. Some may not allow picnic lunches while others restrict pets. Remember to check the farm’s policies before your visit. It helps to set a good example to your children by adhering to farm rules.
Preparation is key to making your cherry picking trip a success. With these tips, you’re well on your way to a wonderful family outing filled with joy and tons of delicious cherries!
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