April 18th was the start of blackberry season for Todd Fickes at the Ol’ Tyme Blackberry Patch. He planted multiple varieties with differing ripening times to make for a longer picking season. His latest maturing blackberry will be available for picking until at least the end of June. Mr. Fickes says that this last variety may have fruit into July, but it’s hard to tell. He plants traditional thorned varieties, hence the name “Ol’ Tyme.” The thorned plants make his job in maintaining the plants more difficult, but doesn’t necessarily make it harder to pick. The kids had no problem filling up their buckets.
Despite the drier conditions this year, Mr. Fickes says his plants are actually producing rather well. He does not use pesticides on his plants other than a natural neem oil product. Mr. Fickes has 600 plants total at his patch and is looking into adding another variety to the mix that has an even later ripening date. He has been dedicated to growing blackberries for the past 6 years. He has two different blackberry varieties one from Texas and another Oregon. Speaking of the blackberry variety from Oregon he stated, “I always say he’s never let me down and I’ve never let him down.” He is self taught and is always learning new growing techniques. He charges $4.65 per pound and provides buckets and bags.
Ol’ Tyme Blackberry patch is located on Atlantis Lane off of Mondon Hill Road, just north of SR50. His address is 26340 Atlantis Lane in Brooksville. He maintains open picking- as long as he is working in the patch, you are free to pick your berries. He is usually working in the patch early in the morning to 6 or 7pm. He recommends calling to make sure he is around: 352-799-8627.
Another option out there for blackberry picking is Bramble Creek Farms. They have 1.5 acres of thornless blackberries. They grow their plants in trellised rows which they say makes for easier picking. Their season should extend through July. They charge $5.00 per pound U pick or $7.00 per pound pre-picked. Their scheduled picking days are Saturday from 8am to 12pm and Tuesday 5pm to 8pm. You can call to find out about additional picking days during the week. They are located at 23031 Hayman Road in Brooksville Tel. 352-796-5473
It’s a first season for JG Ranch’s Blackberries. Their thornless variety should be available until mid July. They charge $4.00 per pound U-pick or $6.00 per pound pre picked. If you would like to purchase your blackberries pre-picked, they will need 24 hours notice. JG Ranch is located at 17200 Wiscon Road Road in Brooksville. Their phone number is (352) 799-0556. They are open for picking Friday through Sunday 9am to 5pm, but recommend calling before you come out to check on berry conditions and availability.
