Pick Your Own Share of Connecticut's Fall Bounty

Nothing says "fall" quite like going apple picking. 

But as summer gives way to autumn this year, don't forget the other easy-to-pick fruits like nectarines, peaches, and pears. And pumpkins won't be far behind.

In Connecticut, PYO stands for "pick your own" at a local farm or orchard. Part produce shopping and part farmyard entertainment, PYO offers an afternoon of family fun. You'll come home with a bounty of fresh fruits and maybe some baked goods.

By supporting local farmers, PYO helps prevent Connecticut open space from being sold off for development. The state's agriculture department promotes PYO as "agri-tourism" and publishes a list of Connecticut PYO locations, many within a short drive.

PYO FAVORITES

Below are a few of our family's PYO favorites, based on nearly 20 years of picking.

Bishop's Orchards: If you don't mind I-95 traffic, this one's an easy shot north and just past New Haven. Great apple picking and a huge farm store, which is very popular with the locals. Call 203 458-PICK for more information.

Hickory Hill Orchards: This one is a family favorite. Just last weekend we visited and picked some of the tastiest nectarines imaginable. Pears and peaches are also ready, and many varieties of apples will be available in the comings weeks. The terrain is a bit hilly, but the kids will love it. Don't miss the "Pie Garden" where you can sample fruit pies and fresh cider. Call (203) 272-3824 for more information.

March Farm: A bit further north is bucolic Bethlehem, Conn. and our favorite blueberry picking location. But this time of year it has apples and a farm-style playground for kids, including animals, a hay-ride and corn maze. It boasts a killer farm store, too. Call 203-266-7721 for more information.

Blue Jay Orchards: Closer to home in Bethel, this place offers dozens of kinds of apples, pickable from late August into mid-October. Nice farm stand and even coupons for early pickers.  Call 203-748-0119 for more information.

Silverman's Farm: This is your closest choice, just north of the Merritt in Easton.  In addition to PYO they have a petting zoo, farm store, and bluegrass band playing Sundays in late September and October. Being so close, we've found it a bit crowded and chaotic, but at least you'll save on gas. Call 203-261-3306 for more information.

HOW TO PYO

Wherever you go picking, follow this etiquette:

• Dress appropriately with sturdy shoes (no flip-flops) and long-sleeved shirts to avoid scratching. Wear a hat if it's sunny.
• Pick only in designated areas. Some trees are roped off for a reason (not ripe).
• Keep your kids from climbing the trees. It's an orchard, not a playground.
• Pick each piece gently with a turning motion of the hand. If the fruit is ripe it shouldn't take much effort.
• If additional fruit falls while picking, pick it up. "Drops" are like wasting good food.
• When you're checking out and weighing your bounty, 'fess up if you ate more than a piece or two. Remember:  this is how farmers make their living!

For more on PYO, check out this video from Silverman's Farm.