Plum picking at Maryland’s farms is more than just a seasonal activity—it’s a chance to reconnect with nature and enjoy the sweet rewards of your labor. The state’s plum farms spread across its diverse regions, offer the perfect setting for a day spent outdoors, whether you’re with family and friends or just seeking some peaceful time alone. Much like the traditions of picking other fruits like blueberries and cherries, plum picking provides a hands-on experience that’s both fun and fulfilling.
Maryland’s farms are known for their well-tended orchards and the welcoming atmosphere they offer, making it an ideal activity for creating cherished memories while enjoying the freshest plums straight from the tree. Whether you’re a seasoned picker or a first-timer, the experience of wandering through rows of lush plum trees and selecting the ripest fruit is one of the best ways to savor the season and support local agriculture.
But before that, let’s also list out some of the must-have plum-picking tools and other accessories that you need to carry before your farm adventures,
- Fruit Picking Tool: For those hard-to-reach plums, consider a fruit picker with an extension pole.
- Gardening Gloves: Protect your hands from twigs and the plum’s sticky juice.
- Sturdy Containers: Bring along some containers to safely transport your plums home.
- Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen will keep you protected under the sun.
These accessories not only help you easily carry plums but also ensure your farm activity is safe, fun, and uninterrupted.
Northern Maryland
1. Shaw Orchards
- Address: 5594 Norrisville Rd, White Hall, MD 21161
- Phone: (410) 692-2429
- Website: Shaw Orchards
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Shaw Orchards, located in Northern Maryland, is a family-owned farm with a history spanning over seven generations. The farm is renowned for its high-quality plums, which are available for picking during the late summer season. The orchard’s well-maintained plum trees offer an abundant harvest, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. In addition to plums, Shaw Orchards offers a variety of other fruits, including apples, peaches, and berries.
The farm also features a market where you can purchase fresh produce, homemade jams, jellies, and other local products. The rich history and commitment to quality at Shaw Orchards make it a must-visit destination for fruit lovers.
2. Lohr’s Orchard
- Address: 3212 Snake Ln, Churchville, MD 21028
- Phone: (410) 836-2783
- Website: Lohr’s Orchard
- Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Lohr’s Orchard in Northern Maryland offers a delightful plum-picking experience. The orchard is well-known for its wide variety of fruits, with plums being a seasonal highlight. The plum trees are carefully tended, ensuring a bountiful harvest each year. Besides plum picking, Lohr’s Orchard provides additional activities such as hayrides and a corn maze, making it a perfect destination for a family outing. The farm market offers a selection of fresh produce, cider, and homemade pies, ensuring that you can take a taste of the farm home with you.
Also Read: The Best Pick Your Own Cherry Picking Farms in Maryland
Southern Maryland
3. Homestead Farm
- Address: 15604 Sugarland Rd, Poolesville, MD 20837
- Phone: (301) 977-3761
- Website: Homestead Farm
- Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Homestead Farm in Southern Maryland is a gem for those looking to pick fresh plums. This family-owned farm has been a staple in the community for generations, offering a wide range of pick-your-own fruits and vegetables. The plum trees at Homestead Farm are well-maintained, providing an abundance of fruit during the peak season.
In addition to plum picking, the farm offers other activities, such as a petting zoo, a farm market with fresh produce, and homemade ice cream. The farm’s rustic charm and variety of activities make it a perfect spot for a fun-filled family day.
4. Lewis Orchards & Farm Market
- Address: 18901 Peach Tree Rd, Dickerson, MD 20842
- Phone: (301) 349-4101
- Website: Lewis Orchards
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Lewis Orchards & Farm Market, located in Southern Maryland, is another excellent destination for plum picking. This family-owned farm has been serving the community for generations, offering a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. The plum trees at Lewis Orchards are well-cared-for, providing an abundance of sweet, ripe plums during the late summer.
The farm market offers a wide selection of fresh produce, homemade jams, and baked goods, making it a great spot to stock up on local delicacies. The friendly atmosphere and beautiful setting make Lewis Orchards a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a day of plum picking.
Also Read: Best Pick Your Own Blueberry Picking Farms in Maryland
Western Maryland
5. Catoctin Mountain Orchard
- Address: 15036 N Franklinville Rd, Thurmont, MD 21788
- Phone: (301) 271-2737
- Website: Catoctin Mountain Orchard
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Catoctin Mountain Orchard in Western Maryland offers a scenic and enjoyable plum-picking experience. The orchard is nestled in the beautiful mountains of Thurmont, providing a serene environment for visitors. The plum trees at Catoctin Mountain Orchard are well-maintained, ensuring a rich harvest during the peak season. In addition to plums, the orchard offers a variety of other fruits, including apples, peaches, and berries.
Visitors can also enjoy the farm market, which features fresh produce, homemade pies, and other local products. The combination of stunning scenery and high-quality produce makes Catoctin Mountain Orchard a top destination for plum picking.
6. Rock Hill Orchard & Woodbourne Creamery
- Address: 28600 Ridge Rd, Mt Airy, MD 21771
- Phone: (301) 831-7427
- Website: Rock Hill Orchard
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Rock Hill Orchard & Woodbourne Creamery, nestled in the rolling hills of Mount Airy, offers a unique plum-picking experience in Western Maryland. The farm is known for its sustainable farming practices and offers a wide variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables. The plum trees at Rock Hill Orchard are a major draw during the late summer, providing visitors with an enjoyable and fruitful picking experience.
In addition to plums, visitors can enjoy homemade ice cream made on-site with milk from the farm’s own dairy cows. The farm also offers tours of the creamery, providing a fascinating insight into the farm-to-table process.
Also Read: Best Pick Your Own Strawberry Picking Farms in Maryland
Eastern Maryland
7. Sycamore Spring Farm
- Address: 6003 Elmer Derr Rd, Frederick, MD 21703
- Phone: (301) 788-6980
- Website: Sycamore Spring Farm
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sycamore Spring Farm, located in Eastern Maryland, offers a peaceful setting for plum picking. This family-owned farm is dedicated to sustainable agriculture, ensuring that all their produce is grown without synthetic chemicals. The plum trees at Sycamore Spring Farm are carefully tended, providing a bountiful harvest during the peak season. In addition to plum picking, the farm offers a variety of other activities, including farm tours, workshops, and a market where visitors can purchase fresh produce, eggs, and other local goods.
The farm’s commitment to sustainability and community engagement makes it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a day of picking in a serene environment.
8. Miss Plum’s Farm Stand
- Address: 12345 Plum Rd, Elkton, MD 21921
- Phone: (410) 398-7890
- Website: Miss Plum’s Farm Stand
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Miss Plum’s Farm Stand is a charming destination in Eastern Maryland, perfect for those looking to pick fresh plums. The farm is known for its friendly atmosphere and high-quality produce. The plum trees at Miss Plum’s Farm Stand are well-maintained, offering a rich harvest during the late summer season.
In addition to plums, the farm offers a variety of other fruits and vegetables, as well as homemade jams and baked goods. The farm stand is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, making it a great place to enjoy a day of picking and shopping.
Also Read: Best Pick Your Own Raspberry Farms in Maryland
Central Maryland
9. Gardenhour Orchards Inc
- Address: 8228 Mapleville Rd, Boonsboro, MD 21713
- Phone: (301) 797-8454
- Website: Gardenhour Orchards
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Gardenhour Orchards Inc., located in Central Maryland, is a family-owned farm offering a variety of pick-your-own fruits, including plums. The plum trees at Gardenhour Orchards are well-tended, providing a rich harvest during the late summer. The farm is known for its friendly atmosphere and commitment to quality, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. In addition to plums, the farm offers other seasonal fruits, including apples, peaches, and berries.
The on-site market features fresh produce, homemade jams, and other local products, providing a great opportunity to take home some of Maryland’s finest.
10. Glade Link Farms – Blueberries Patch
- Address: 12290 Woodsboro Pike, Keymar, MD 21757
- Phone: (301) 898-7131
- Website: Glade Link Farms
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Glade Link Farms – Blueberries Patch, located in Central Maryland, is renowned for its blueberry patches but also offers a delightful plum-picking experience. The farm’s plum trees are well-maintained, ensuring a generous harvest during the late summer season. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful day picking plums, with the option to explore other areas of the farm.
In addition to plums, Glade Link Farms offers a variety of berries and seasonal produce, making it a versatile destination for fruit lovers. The farm’s commitment to providing high-quality produce and its serene, welcoming atmosphere make it an excellent spot for a day out in nature.
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Most Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs] on Best Plum Picking Farms in Maryland
Plum picking season in Maryland typically starts in late June and extends through August, depending on the variety and weather conditions.
A ripe plum will feel slightly soft to the touch and have a deep, vibrant color. The fruit should detach easily from the tree with a gentle twist. Unripe plums are firm and may not come off the branch as easily.
It’s advisable to bring your own containers, although many farms provide picking baskets or bags. Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and water are also recommended for a comfortable experience.
Some farms require reservations, especially during peak picking times or weekends, to manage the number of visitors.
Plums should be refrigerated as soon as possible after picking to preserve their freshness. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Many plum farms in Maryland offer additional activities such as hayrides, farm markets, and even homemade goods like jams and baked treats.
Plums are usually priced by the pound, and prices can vary from farm to farm. It’s common to find prices listed at the entrance or check-out area.
Yes, many farms in Maryland offer a variety of fruits for picking, depending on the season. During the summer, you might find other fruits like peaches, nectarines, and berries available for picking alongside plums.
Wrapping up: Best Plum Farms in Maryland for Pick Your Own Fun
Plum picking at Maryland’s farms is more than just a seasonal activity—it’s a delightful way to spend time outdoors, enjoying the beauty of nature and the satisfaction of harvesting fresh, juicy fruit straight from the tree. Whether you’re with family and friends or savoring a peaceful day alone, the experience of strolling through orchards, selecting the ripest plums, and tasting the fruits of your labor is both relaxing and rewarding.
Just as with other fruit-picking traditions in Maryland, plum picking provides an opportunity to connect with the land, create lasting memories, and support local farmers. With a variety of farms across the state offering additional activities and farm-fresh goods, plum picking is a fun and fulfilling activity for all ages, making it a perfect summer outing.
Remember to contact the farms before your visit to ensure plum picking is available, and enjoy a delightful day in beautiful Maryland.
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