2024 Fresno area of California Lavender U-Pick Farms and Orchards - PickYourOwn.org

Lavender U-Pick Orchards in Fresno area of California in 2024, by county

Below are the U-Pick orchards and farms for lavender that we know of in this area.

Not all areas of a state have lavender farms that are open to the public. If you know of any others, please tell us using the add a farm form!

Remember to always check with the farm's own website or Facebook page before you go - or call or email them if they don't have a website or Facebook page. Conditions at the farms and crops can change literally overnight, so if you want to avoid a wasted trip out there - check with the farm directly before you go! If I cannot reach them, I DON'T GO!

PLEASE report closed farms, broken links and incorrect info using the "Report Corrections" form below.

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Fresno County

• Re Rustica - apples, asparagus, beans, beets, broad beans, broccoli, carrots, corn (sweet), cucumbers, eggplant, flowers, grapes, herbs or spices, lavender, melons, onions, peas, peppers, pumpkins, rhubarb, summer squash, winter squash, strawberries, tomatoes, other vegetables, Other fruit or veg, Honey from hives on the farm, prepicked produce, farm animals, school tours, events at your location (call for info)
  High Oaks Lane, Squaw Valley, CA 93675. Phone: 559-977-7539. Directions: please call ahead of time for directions. Picking updates: . Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check. Call before you go - I haven't had an update from this farm in years and there is nothing current about them on the internet; their website is gone, (Does anyone have current information, are they still offering pick your own? If so, please write me!)Click here for picking updates. Crops are usually available in All yearWe grow everything with NO pesticide, NO herbicide, NO fertilizer, NO antibiotics, NO hormones. Our animals are raised kindly with nearly unlimited pasture. Free home delivery also available near Fresno/Clovis and near San Jose! Low delivery rates for other areas. We also work with other local farms, so if we don't have it we can help you find it (or grow it special for you!)

Merced County

• Riverdance Farms - CERTIFIED ORGANIC, blueberries, cherries, lavender, other berries, pecans , persimmons, walnuts, prepicked produce, restrooms, picnic area, school tours
  12230 Livingston Cressey Road, Livingston, CA 95334. Phone: 209-761-0081. Email: RiverdanceFarms@gmail.com. Open: This years event will be held Memorial Day weekend, May 27th-29th. Directions: The farm is located two miles from CA Highway 99 and two miles from Santa Fe Avenue, along the Merced River and across the river from McConnell State Park. The neighbor\'s mailbox nearest the farm gate has an address of 11801 Livingston Cressey Road which works better for Mapquest or Google Maps. . Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check.
  Riverdance Farms Facebook page. Please watch for updates or call Cindy or email for more info or to make an appointment. Cherries May 30 through ~ June 14; Blueberries May 30 through June 28; Depending on weather and crop maturity these dates May change to a week earlier or later; Persimmons, Pomegranates and Walnuts are available in October, November and pre-picked in December; Pecans are ready for harvest in mid NovemberThe farm is located two miles from CA Highway 99 and two miles from Santa Fe Avenue, along the Merced River and across the river from McConnell State Park. The neighbor's mailbox nearest the farm gate has an address of 11801 Livingston Cressey Road which works better for Mapquest or Google MapsCrops are usually available in May, June, July, October, November. We are certified organic for all crops! Fall pomegranates and organic oat hay & almond firewood year-round. They host you-pick days during the annual festival: TYou are welcome to visit our Farm's Annual Pick and Gather FestivalWe invite the whole family out to the Merced River for Memorial Day fun! Look forward to seeing you out there! This annual farm festival gives the whole family an opportunity to pick and taste the river valleys' best organic fruit. Outdoor activities will include Kids Science, Hay-Bale Rides, Camping, Swimming, Nature walks, Crafts, Fishing lessons and more. On Saturday: in addition to the u-pick blueberries and cherries , there is live music & art, kid's activities, local and/or organic food, workshops, wagon rides, wine and food tastings, farm animals, nature displays and crafts. Future plans are to offer flowers, stone fruits, pumpkins and Christmas trees on a you-pick basis. (UPDATED: September 3, 2023, JBS)

 

Lavender: Picking Lavender and Its Uses

 

Lavender is a fragrant and versatile herb that has been cherished for centuries. With its beautiful purple flowers and calming aroma, lavender is not only pleasing to the senses but also offers a range of practical uses. Here's what you need to know about lavender and how you can incorporate it into your daily life:

What is Lavender?

Lavender is an herb native to the Mediterranean region and is widely cultivated for its vibrant flowers and distinct scent. The flowers are small, purple, and grow in spikes, adding a touch of beauty to gardens and landscapes. The essential oil derived from lavender is renowned for its therapeutic properties and is commonly used in various products.

How to know when lavender is ready to be harvested and how to pick it:

Harvesting lavender at the right time ensures that you capture its maximum aroma and flavor.

 

1.  When to Harvest:
   - Lavender is typically harvested when the flowers are in full bloom but haven't started to fade or wilt. The ideal time to harvest lavender is usually in the morning after the dew has dried but before the sun is at its strongest.
   - The exact timing can vary depending on the lavender variety and local growing conditions, but a good rule of thumb is to harvest when about two-thirds of the flowers on the stem have opened.
   
2.  Checking the Blooms:
   - Take a close look at the lavender flowers. They should be fully open and vibrant in color, usually a rich shade of purple or sometimes pink or white, depending on the variety.
   - Avoid harvesting lavender with flowers that have already started to fade or turn brown, as they may not have the desired fragrance or potency.
   
3.  Fragrance Test:
   - Gently rub a few lavender buds or flowers between your fingers to release their fragrance. The aroma should be strong, sweet, and distinctly lavender.
   - If the scent is not as pronounced or if the flowers appear to lack fragrance, it may indicate that the lavender is not fully mature and ready for harvest.
   
4.  Harvesting Lavender:
   - Use sharp pruning shears or scissors to harvest lavender stems. It's best to cut the stems just above the foliage, where the flowers begin.
   - Choose stems that have the most open and vibrant flowers, as they will have the highest concentration of aromatic oils.
   - Aim to harvest the stems in long, uniform lengths to make it easier to handle and bundle later.
   
5.  Bundling and Drying:
   - Gather a small bunch of lavender stems, typically 20-30 stems, and tie them together at the base using a rubber band or string. Make sure the stems are secure but not overly tight.
   - Hang the lavender bundles upside down in a well-ventilated, dry area, away from direct sunlight. This allows the lavender to dry slowly and retain its color and fragrance.
   - Allow the lavender to air dry for several weeks until the stems feel dry and the flowers easily crumble when touched.
   
6. Storing:
   - Once the lavender is completely dry, remove the dried flowers from the stems by gently rubbing them between your fingers or using a clean, dry cloth.
   - Store the dried lavender flowers in airtight containers, such as glass jars or resealable bags, in a cool, dark place to maintain their fragrance and quality.
   

Uses of Lavender:

1. Aromatherapy: Lavender is famous for its soothing scent, known to promote relaxation and reduce stress. You can enjoy the benefits of lavender by using essential oil in diffusers, candles, or even adding a few drops to your bathwater.
2. Skincare: Lavender is gentle on the skin and has antimicrobial properties, making it suitable for various skincare applications. It can help soothe irritated skin, reduce redness, and promote a healthy complexion. Look for lavender-infused lotions, creams, or natural soaps for nourishing your skin.
3. Sleep Aid: The calming aroma of lavender is often used to aid sleep and promote a restful night. You can sprinkle a few drops of lavender essential oil on your pillow or use lavender-scented linen sprays to create a tranquil atmosphere in your bedroom.
4. Culinary Delight: Lavender flowers can be used in cooking and baking to add a unique floral flavor. Infuse lavender buds into tea, use them as a seasoning for desserts, or create delicious lavender-infused syrups for cocktails and lemonades.
5. Home Freshener: Lavender's delightful scent can freshen up your living spaces. You can make your own homemade lavender air fresheners, potpourri, or linen sprays to bring a calming and pleasant aroma to your home.
6. Natural Insect Repellent: Lavender has natural insect-repellent properties, making it an excellent alternative to chemical-laden repellents. You can use lavender essential oil or dried lavender sachets to ward off mosquitoes, flies, and other unwanted insects.
7. Relaxing Baths: Adding dried lavender flowers or lavender essential oil to your bath can create a luxurious and soothing experience. The aromatic properties of lavender help to unwind, relax muscles, and provide a spa-like atmosphere.
   

Lavender is a versatile herb that offers an array of benefits, from promoting relaxation to enhancing skincare routines and adding a delightful aroma to your surroundings.

 

 

Other Local Farm Products (Honey, Horses, Milk, Meat, Eggs, Etc.)
(NOT pick-your-own, unless they are also listed above)

• Farm markets and roadside stands
• Local Honey Finder
• Local Meat, Milk and Eggs
• Venues: Farms, Wineries, Orchards for your event, wedding or party
• Easter egg hunts
• Children"s consignment sales
• Fruit and vegetable festivals
• Winery tours and wine tastings
• Horse rides, stables, lessons, trails
• Maple Syrup farms and sugarworks
• Bed & Breakfasts on Farms, Wineries, Ranches and Orchards
• Pumpkin patches
• Corn mazes
• Zombie Paintball venues
• Christmas Tree Farms & lots
• Environmental resources
• Consumer fraud information
• Wholesale food sources
• Resources for Farmers