
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: WEDNESDAY, September 15, 1993                   TAG: 9309110120
SECTION: VIRGINIA'S FINEST                    PAGE: VF-2   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: 
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

YOU CAN BE SURE IT'S FRESH FROM THE FARM IF YOU PICKED IT

You've probably visited a berry farm to pick quarts of luscious strawberries or wandered the fields of autumn in search of the perfect pumpkin. You may have even considered cutting your own Christmas tree, but have you ever thought about picking your own broccoli? How about winter squash? Or green beans? You can even pick your own garlic!

It doesn't get any fresher than picking your own Virginia grown produce. The experience will be a memorable one for you and your family. Many "pick-your-own" farms offer seasonal activities that are educational and entertaining . . . from hayrides to harvest festivals, even nature trails and petting zoos. In addition to picking your own produce, many fresh-picked items are available and a variety of farms also offer herbs, perennials, honey, cider, preserves and more.

A "pick-your-own" outing means you'll get the very freshest items available and there's no better way to find a new recipe. (You can talk directly to the grower!) Virginia's variety of "pick-your-own" crops include apples, berries, pumpkins, peaches, nectarines, garlic, even salad greens! And some of Virginia's vegetable seasons will have you picking through November. If landscaping appeals to you, try choosing your own flowers - by the "clump." You can even "jug your own" cider!

The art of "picking your own" sometimes means providing your own containers, though many farms provide everything you'll need to gather a bountiful array of homegrown goodness. There's a "pick-your-own" farm within an easy drive of where you live, so make plans now to enjoy the bounty and beauty of Virginia.

Look for the "Let Us Be Your Guide" coupon elsewhere in this publication to receive a free copy of the Virginia Grown guide to help plan your trip.

by CNB