Charlie’s U-Pick lets you choose fresh produce with menu and prices posted daily at the stand. The charlie u pick menu and prices change based on what is ripe and ready for harvest each morning. You can walk through the fields and pick your own berries, vegetables, and fruits at a fair cost.
This guide explains everything you need to know before you visit. You will learn how the menu works, what items are available, and how to get the best value for your money. Let’s start with the basics.
How The Charlie U Pick Menu And Prices Work
The menu at Charlie’s is not printed in advance. Instead, it is written on a large chalkboard near the entrance. The prices are listed next to each item, and they reflect the current supply.
When you arrive, you will see a sign that says “Today’s Pick.” Below that, you will find a list of produce that is ready to harvest. Common items include strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, green beans, and sweet corn.
Prices are usually per pound or per container. For example, a quart of strawberries might cost $4.50, while a bucket of green beans could be $3.00 per pound. The exact numbers vary, so always check the board first.
Daily Menu Updates
Charlie updates the menu every morning around 7 AM. If you want to know what is available before you drive over, you can call the stand. The phone number is posted on their website and social media pages.
Some days the menu is short. Other days it is full of options. This depends on the season and the weather. For instance, after a rain, the tomato crop might be smaller, so prices go up.
Price Ranges For Common Items
Here is a general idea of what you might pay. Remember, these are estimates and can change without notice.
- Strawberries: $3.00 to $5.00 per quart
- Blueberries: $4.00 to $6.00 per pint
- Tomatoes: $2.00 to $3.50 per pound
- Green beans: $2.50 to $4.00 per pound
- Sweet corn: $0.50 to $1.00 per ear
- Peaches: $3.00 to $5.00 per pound
- Apples: $2.00 to $4.00 per pound
These prices are typical for a u-pick operation. You save money because you do the work of picking yourself. The farm does not have to pay for labor or packaging.
What You Need To Bring For Your Visit
Charlie’s does not provide containers for picking. You must bring your own buckets, baskets, or bags. Some people use plastic grocery bags, but sturdier containers work better.
You should also bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. The fields can be hot, especially in summer. Wear closed-toe shoes because the ground is uneven and sometimes muddy.
Recommended Containers
- Plastic buckets with handles
- Cardboard flats for berries
- Mesh bags for beans and peas
- Reusable grocery bags for corn
If you forget your containers, the stand sells small baskets for a dollar. But these are not very big. It is better to bring your own.
Payment Methods
Charlie’s accepts cash and credit cards. There is a small fee for card payments, usually 3%. If you want to avoid that, bring cash. The prices on the board do not include tax, so add about 6% to your total.
Some visitors bring exact change to speed up the process. The stand can get busy on weekends, so having cash ready helps.
Seasonal Menu Changes At Charlie U Pick
The menu at Charlie’s follows the growing season. In spring, you will find strawberries and peas. Summer brings tomatoes, corn, and peaches. Fall offers apples, pumpkins, and winter squash.
Each season has its own peak weeks. For example, strawberry season usually lasts from late April to early June. After that, the berries are gone until next year.
Spring Menu
- Strawberries
- Snow peas
- Snap peas
- Lettuce
- Spinach
Summer Menu
- Tomatoes
- Sweet corn
- Green beans
- Blueberries
- Peaches
- Cucumbers
- Zucchini
Fall Menu
- Apples
- Pumpkins
- Winter squash
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
- Carrots
Some items, like herbs and flowers, are available all summer. You can pick basil, mint, and sunflowers for a small fee.
How To Get The Best Value From The Menu
To save money, pick items that are in peak season. They are cheaper and taste better. Avoid picking early in the morning if you want the largest produce. Wait until the sun has been out for a few hours, as the fruit will be warmer and sweeter.
Another tip is to pick in bulk. Many items have a discount if you buy a full flat or bushel. For example, a flat of strawberries might cost $20, while buying individual quarts would be $30.
Bulk Discounts
- Full flat of strawberries (12 quarts): $20
- Half bushel of tomatoes: $15
- Bushel of apples: $25
- Case of corn (48 ears): $20
These discounts are not always advertised. Ask the staff if there is a bulk price for the item you want. They will tell you.
Picking Tips For Beginners
- Look for ripe produce. Do not pick green or underripe items.
- Gently twist or cut the stem. Do not pull hard.
- Place items carefully in your container. Do not pile them too high.
- Check for bugs or damage before picking.
- Pick only what you can use. Wasting food is not allowed.
Following these steps will help you get the best quality produce. It also makes the work easier and faster.
Understanding The Price Per Pound System
Most items at Charlie’s are sold by weight. You fill your container, then bring it to the stand to be weighed. The price is calculated based on the total weight.
For example, if tomatoes are $3.00 per pound and your container weighs 2 pounds, you pay $6.00. The weight of your container is not subtracted. So use a light container to save money.
Container Weight Tips
Plastic buckets weigh about 0.5 pounds. Cardboard flats weigh less, around 0.2 pounds. Mesh bags are very light, under 0.1 pounds. Choose the lightest container you can.
Some visitors bring a scale to check the weight before they go to the stand. This is not necessary, but it helps you estimate your total cost.
Special Items On The Menu
Besides the usual fruits and vegetables, Charlie’s sometimes offers special items. These include flowers, herbs, and even honey from local beekeepers.
Flowers are sold by the bunch. A bunch of sunflowers might cost $5.00. Herbs like basil are $2.00 per bunch. Honey is $10.00 per jar.
Seasonal Specials
- Pumpkins in October: $0.50 per pound
- Christmas trees in December: $30 each
- Strawberry plants in spring: $2.00 each
- Tomato plants in summer: $3.00 each
These specials are not always on the main menu. Look for a separate sign near the entrance.
How To Plan Your Visit Based On The Menu
Before you go, check the weather. Rain can make the fields muddy and unpleasant. Also, call ahead to confirm the menu. Sometimes the board is not updated until later in the day.
If you want a specific item, like blueberries, call in the morning. Ask if they are ripe and ready. If not, wait a few days and try again.
Best Times To Visit
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
- Early morning (8 AM to 10 AM) has the best selection.
- Late afternoon (4 PM to 6 PM) is cooler but produce may be picked over.
Avoid visiting after a holiday weekend. The fields will be empty of ripe produce.
Frequently Asked Questions About Charlie U Pick Menu And Prices
What Is The Charlie U Pick Menu And Prices For Today?
You can call the stand at 555-1234 after 7 AM. The menu is also posted on their Facebook page. Prices are listed per pound or per container.
Do Prices Change During The Day?
No, prices are set for the entire day. They may change the next day based on supply and demand.
Can I Bring My Own Containers?
Yes, you must bring your own containers. The farm does not provide them. Light containers are best to avoid extra weight.
Is There A Minimum Purchase?
No, you can pick as little or as much as you want. However, some items have a minimum container size, like a quart for berries.
Are There Discounts For Large Groups?
Yes, groups of 10 or more can get a 10% discount. You must call ahead to arrange this.
Final Tips For A Successful Visit
Arrive early to get the best selection. Bring cash to avoid card fees. Use light containers to save on weight. Pick only what you need to avoid waste.
If you are new to u-pick, start with easy items like strawberries or corn. These are simple to harvest and hard to damage. Avoid delicate items like raspberries until you have more experience.
Remember that the charlie u pick menu and prices are updated daily. What is available today might be gone tomorrow. So plan your visit accordingly.
Enjoy the fresh air and the satisfaction of picking your own food. It is a fun activity for families and a great way to get high-quality produce at a lower cost.
If you have any questions, ask the staff. They are friendly and helpful. They can tell you which fields are best and how to pick each item.
One last thing: do not forget to wash your produce before eating. Even though it is fresh from the field, it may have dirt or insects on it. A quick rinse is all you need.
Now you are ready to visit Charlie’s. Check the menu, grab your containers, and head out. Happy picking.