
Blueberries may be a superfood loaded with vitamins and antioxidants, but let's not forget how delicious they taste! Especially when they are grown in Northern New England. July is National Blueberry Month, celebrating this wonderful fruit which is also Maine's state berry. Our real estate agents will be filling containers at these wonderful farms found around Maine.
- Orchard Ridge Farm - 236 Sebago Lake Rd., Gorham, ME 04038
Sisters Erica and Kristen, with the help of mom Mary, fulfilled a lifelong dream when they opened Orchard Ridge Farm. In addition to blueberries, the U-pick orchard offers apples and pears during their growing seasons. Take a scenic stroll along the multi-use trail that circles the 38-acre farm and let the kids visit the chickens, pigs, goats, and rabbits. The farm store is open year-round, serving pizza, sandwiches, donuts, and bagels. Hours are 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.
- Blueberry Hill Farm - 231 Blueberry Hill Farm Rd., Acton, ME 04001
The appropriately-named Blueberry Hill Farm features over 7,500 high bushes covering 10 acres. With stunning country landscapes and dramatic mountain views, the farm is so scenic that it's become a popular venue for weddings and special events. The grounds also accommodate more casual activities, so be sure to bring a picnic lunch along. Blueberry Hill Farm is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Spiller Farm - 85 Spiller Farm Ln., Wells, ME 04090
Maine history literally runs through the grounds of Spiller Farm, which has been family-operated since 1894. In 1995, a recently plowed field revealed the site of an extensive assortment of stone artifacts dating back to 8,000 BCE. The designated Paleoindian Site was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. The farm's extensive U-pick offerings throughout the year include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, tomatoes, pumpkins, and apples. The farm store, which sells fresh fruits and vegetables, meats, sandwiches, and pizza, is open from 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. daily.
- Crabtree's Blueberries - 703 Bridgton Rd., Sebago, ME 04029
What do books and blueberries have in common? Not much, but they make a delightful combination at Crabtree's Blueberries. When Allen and Penny Crabtree purchased the farm in 1998, one of their favorite features was the extensive patch of blueberry bushes that had been planted by the previous owner. The Crabtrees doubled the number of bushes and started their U-pick operation in 2001. In the meantime, the couple continued their original business, Crabtree's Collection Old Books, founded in 1983. They stock more than 32,000 books available for mail order, specializing in out-of-print titles. Crabtree's Blueberries is open 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday.
- North Branch Farm - 122 Stream Rd., Monroe, ME 04951
Brothers Seth and Tyler Yentes grew up on a homestead just three miles from North Branch Farm. After spending their childhood learning how to grow food from the land and raise farm animals, the pair decided to apply their skills on a larger scale, purchasing North Branch Farm in 2009. In a throwback to classic farming methods, the brothers use a team of Percheron mares to work the fields on the 330-acre farm.
- Goss Berry Farm - 311 Elm St., Mechanic Falls, ME 04256
During the fledgling days in 1988, Goss Berry Farm consisted of a few blueberry and raspberry bushes, supplemented with strawberries. Owners Sharon and Walter Goss set up a picnic table in front of their house, where they left containers of berries for people to purchase on the honor system. Eventually, business increased to the point where the couple was able to expand their blueberry and raspberry fields, opening to the public as a U-pick farm. From mid-July until the first frost, visitors can also pick their own flowers to add some freshness and color to their own home.
- Libby & Son U-Picks - 86 Sawyer Mountain Rd., Limerick, ME 04048
Blueberry picking becomes a day of entertainment for the whole family at Libby & Son U-Picks. Blueberries are sold in pre-purchased containers, which include access to shuttle rides, picnic areas, live music, and other amenities. Visitors who purchase a fruit container may also purchase up to two guest passes at $5 each. Just a half-mile from the farm is a hiking trail that leads to the summit of Sawyer Mountain.
- Joan & Brad's Berry Farm - 447 Deerwander Rd., Hollis, ME 04042
Looking for a convenient and relaxing spot for a staycation? Head out to Joan & Brad's Berry Farm. Two Tentrr safari-style campsites on the property are available for rental, and the farm is just 15 minutes away from Lake Arrowhead. Even if you visit only for a day of blueberry picking, the farm's beautifully manicured grounds and peaceful setting will leave you feeling refreshed.
Please note that hours may vary due to weather and the availability of crops. Call ahead or visit the farm's website/Facebook page for up-to-date information about the schedule.
Ready to buy or sell a home in Maine? Contact us at The Masiello Group for dedicated help from our friendly and experienced real estate agents.