Despite Mother Nature’s attempts to dampen the spirits of Harvard’s farmers, they persist, and most farms already have some crops available. Strawberries, summer raspberries, and a variety of greens and herbs are already popping up at stands around town, with lots more fruits and vegetables to follow. Thankfully, all of the orchards will have blueberries to pick, something that was in doubt after temperatures dropped below freezing in mid-May. According to Pam Lawson of Doe Orchards, the berries are taking their time turning blue this summer. But they deserve a little patience from us this season.
Carlson Orchards, 115 Oak Hill Road, 978-456-3916
Strawberries and red currants from Nourse Farm in Westborough. Tomatoes, peppers, zucchini, summer squash, cucumbers, and onions from Idylwilde Farms. Some of Carlson’s apple varieties from last season are still available. Blueberry-picking will open as soon as the berries are ripe; check Facebook for updates.
Store is open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
Doe Orchards, 327 Ayer Road, 978-772-4139
Pick-your-own blueberries should be opening around July 8; check Facebook for updates.
Good Spirits Farm, 106 East Bare Hill Road, 978-456-8291
At the self-service farmstand: Raspberries, snap peas, spinach, kale, fresh and dried herbs. Potted flowers for planting are also available, as are chicken, duck, and turkey eggs; and honey, jam, and flower bouquets. Blueberries will be coming soon.
Stand is open daily.
Old Frog Pond Farm, 38 Eldridge Road
At the self-service farmstand on the porch: Certified organic fruit and vegetables, including strawberries, rhubarb, kale, cabbage, Swiss chard, collard greens, and garlic scapes. The farm’s honey, raspberry jam, and calendula oil are also available.
Stand is open 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. during the week, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends.
Westward Orchards, 178 Massachusetts Avenue, 978-456-8363
Strawberries, kale, Swiss chard, romaine, Bibb lettuce, and mixed herbs. Other fruits and vegetables from Idylwilde Farm are available. Pick-your-own blueberries should be opening shortly after the Fourth of July.
Store is open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
All produce listed is Harvard-grown unless otherwise noted.
—Compiled by Joan Eliyesil
