After Labor Day, Ohio slowly makes it’s way into fall with falling leaves, cooler temperatures and for many families: Apples. According to the University of Illinois, 63% of apples grown in 2005 were eaten as fresh fruit. There is no way to get apples any fresher than picking them right off the tree. Many families look forward to the tradition of going on an apple pick. In this article, there are four farms local to Dayton, OH that offer apple picking to families.
To understand the price and value of apples, you must first understand the standard measurements. Most farms charge by the peck or by the bushel. There are four pecks in a bushel. A peck of apples weighs about 10½ pounds and a bushel weighs around 42 pounds. Some farms sell a half bushel, which is the same as two pecks.
Monnin Fruit Farm
8201 Frederick Pike
Dayton, OH 45414
Monnin Fruit Farm is a favorite among locals. It is located in Butler Township. This farm was by far the most affordable and popular. Apple picking is open Monday through Saturday from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, and 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on Sunday. A full bushel is $16 and a half bushel (also known as two pecks) is $10. There are a couple caveats. First, this farm is cash only. Second, the only restrooms available are Port-o-Potties. Call ahead to confirm picking times and varieties at (937) 890-4536.
Tuken’s Farm Market
15725 Eaton Pike
West Alexandria, OH 45381
TukensFarmMarket.com
Tuken’s is a newer farm, named for their canine mascot. They specialize in offering fruits and vegetables grown with minimal chemical and pesticide exposure. Along with produce, Tuken’s also has a small petting zoo of friendly farm animals. Apple picking is offered during normal business hours of 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Saturday and 11:00 am – 5:00 pm on Sunday. This was the only farm in the area that charged by the pound for apples, at a price of $1.29/lb. Assuming that a peck is 10½ pounds, this would put the price at $13.55 per peck and $54.18 per bushel. There is currently a printable coupon located on the website under “Specials” for 10% off your next purchase. Call ahead to confirm picking times and varieties at (937) 687-3848.
Hidden Valley Fruit Farm
5474 North State Route 48
Lebanon, OH 45036
HiddenValleyFruitFarm.com
Hidden Valley offers a wide range of produce. In addition to apples, they have grapes and berries available for “u-pick” seasonally. The Hidden Valley facebook page lists weekly produce specials and updates on the harvest. While Pick-Your-Own apples are available daily through most of autumn, you may only pick between 11:00 am – 2:00 pm. The market is open Monday through Saturday 10:00 am to 7:00 pm and Sunday 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. In addition to apple picking, the farm also has a petting zoo, hayrides in the fall, local honey and various festivals throughout the season. A peck of apples is $12 and two pecks (or a half bushel) is $20. Call ahead to confirm picking times and varieties at (513) 932-1869.
Iron’s Fruit Farm
1640 Stubbs Mill Road
Lebanon, OH 45036
Iron’s Fruit Farm is a fourth generation family owned business. In addition to apple picking, families can enjoy a 12 acre corn maze and friendly farm animals. Although the farm is open 7 days a week, apple picking only takes place on the weekends: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Saturday and 12:00pm to 5:00 pm on Sunday. Pick your own apples are priced at $8 for a peck and $15 for a half bushel or two pecks. Call ahead to confirm picking times and varieties at (513) 932-2853.
Additional Sources:
www.PickYourOwn.org
http://urbanext.illinois.edu/apples/facts.cfm
