I’ve never picked my own blueberries before but have always wanted to do it. Seems like every year I miss my chance (prime blueberry pickin’ in this area is early to mid June). Although it is a little late in the season and despite the oppressive heat we have been experiencing, last Saturday I made a trip to Snikroc farm over in Durham County to get some blueberries. The small family owned Snikroc farm isn’t all that far from where I live in North Raleigh. It is just a short ride up Creedmoor Road and then head west on Highway 98. Here is a map of their location (Google Maps).
As you enter the property you will pass a small trailer that they use to sell soft serve ice cream on warm summer evenings. Further down the gravel drive is an area to park next to a small shed that has a scale and basic supplies like plastic bags and baskets to use when pickin the blueberries. Upon my initial inspection of some of the plants I confirmed that I was a little late in the season for prime blueberry pickin. I also noticed that the extreme heat we’ve been having has taken a toll on the blueberry plants. However, as I wandered a few rows in, I was able to find some bushes that had some plump albeit small berries ready to be picked!
Above is a quick shot of some of my berries. They are a little smaller than what I am used to buying in the store, but they are packed with flavor. I think next year I will plan on visitng the farm earlier, like sometime in mid June. I would love to get several pounds next year. On this trip I only managed to pick 1.5 pounds. My small haul didn’t discourage me though, since I love having locally grown fresh blueberries on my cereal in the morning and now I know where to go next year!
Purchasing at Snicrok farm is done on the honor system. Just weigh out your haul and leave your payment at the shed (prices per pound are listed on the wall). For more information check out the Snikroc Farm Facebook Page.
The Triangle Explorer 