Connecticut’s rich soil and warm summers offer the perfect conditions for growing a variety of tomatoes, from the classic beefsteak to heirloom varieties. Picking your own tomatoes is not only a delightful way to enjoy the freshest produce but also an opportunity to connect with local farmers and learn more about where your food comes from. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best farms in Connecticut for picking your own tomatoes, along with helpful tips and product recommendations to make your experience even more enjoyable.
Also Read: 12+ Best Pick Your Own Corn Farms in Connecticut: Blissful Pick
Essential Gears for Tomato Picking During Summer
Before heading out to the farms, consider these must-have items to enhance your tomato-picking experience:
- Gardening Gloves: Protect your hands from dirt and plant residue with a durable pair of gloves.
- 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.
- Garden Harvest Basket: Carry your picked tomatoes with ease in a sturdy harvest basket.
9 Top Farms for Picking Your Own Tomatoes in Connecticut
North Connecticut
1. Easy Pickin’s Orchard
- Amenities: Farm stands, flower picking.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM; check for seasonal variations.
- Additional Info: Offers educational farm tours by appointment.
- Address: 46 Bailey Rd, Enfield, CT 06082
- Phone: (860) 763-3276
- Email: easypickinsorchard@gmail.com
- Additional Activity: Participate in their seasonal berry picking and vegetable harvesting.
This Enfield farm provides a charming setting for picking a variety of tomatoes, fruits, and vegetables. Easy Pickin’s Orchard emphasizes an integrated pest management system that minimizes chemical use, making it a great choice for health-conscious visitors.
The Farm also offers flower picking and a range of seasonal activities, providing a comprehensive farm experience.
2. Zentek Farms
- Amenities: Heirloom tomato varieties.
- Opening Hours: Call for hours and availability.
- Additional Info: Follow them on social media for updates on produce availability.
- Address: 515 Highland Ave, Cheshire, CT 06410
- Phone: (203) 272-2927
- Email: info@zentekfarms.com
- Additional Activity: Enjoy their seasonal flower picking and farm events.
Zentek Farms in Cheshire offers a quiet, family-friendly environment for tomato picking. Specializing in both classic and heirloom varieties, the Farm provides an opportunity to explore different types of tomatoes. The Farm operates on a small scale, ensuring personal attention and a peaceful picking experience.
South Connecticut
3. Silverman’s Farm
- Amenities: Petting zoo, tractor rides, farm market.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM; check ahead for specific picking times.
- Additional Info: Enjoy the scenic tractor rides through the orchard.
- Address: 451 Sport Hill Rd, Easton, CT 06612
- Phone: (203) 261-3306
- Email: info@silvermansfarm.com
- Additional Activity: Visit their petting zoo and enjoy hayrides.
This Easton farm is a go-to destination for families looking to enjoy a day out in the countryside. Silverman’s Farm offers a variety of pick-your-own produce, including tomatoes, along with a petting zoo and tractor rides for kids. Their market sells homemade pies, fresh produce, and other local goods.
4. Homestead Farm of Jones Family Farms
- Amenities: Wine tastings and educational tours.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 5:30 PM, seasonally adjusted.
- Additional Info: Check their website for event schedules and picking updates.
- Address: 606 Walnut Tree Hill Rd, Shelton, CT 06484
- Phone: (203) 929-8425
- Email: info@jonesfamilyfarms.com
- Additional Activity: Participate in seasonal events and enjoy their winery.
Nestled in Shelton, Homestead Farm offers an expansive selection of tomatoes and other fresh produce for picking. Known for their sustainable farming practices, Jones Family Farms provides an educational experience alongside the fun of picking. The Farm also hosts wine tastings and other events throughout the year.
East Connecticut
5. Holmberg Orchards
- Amenities: Farm market, winery.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM, varies by season.
- Additional Info: Wine tasting is available on weekends.
- Address: 12 Orchard Ln, Gales Ferry, CT 06335
- Phone: (860) 464-7305
- Email: info@holmbergorchards.com
- Additional Activity: Enjoy wine tasting at their farm winery.
Located in Gales Ferry, Holmberg Orchards provides a picturesque setting for picking your own tomatoes and other produce. The Farm also offers wine tasting from their vineyard, adding a unique twist to the traditional farm visit. Their market features a wide range of homemade goods, from baked items to local honey.
West Connecticut
6. March Farm
- Amenities: Playground, hayrides, fishing pond.
- Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM; check for seasonal changes.
- Additional Info: The Farm hosts seasonal events and festivals.
- Address: 160 Munger Ln, Bethlehem, CT 06751
- Phone: (203) 266-7721
- Email: info@marchfarm.com
- Additional Activity: Explore their corn maze and attend farm events.
March Farm in Bethlehem is a family-owned farm offering a diverse selection of pick-your-own produce, including tomatoes. The Farm focuses on community engagement, with playgrounds, hayrides, and a pond for fishing, making it an ideal spot for a family outing. Their commitment to sustainable farming practices ensures high-quality, fresh produce.
Central Connecticut
7. Lyman Orchards Pick Your Own
- Amenities: Market, bakery, golf courses, corn maze.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM, seasonally varies.
- Additional Info: Call ahead for crop availability and special events.
- Address: 32 Reeds Gap Rd, Middlefield, CT 06455
- Phone: (860) 349-6000
- Email: info@lymanorchards.com
- Additional Activity: Play a round of golf at their championship golf courses.
Lyman Orchards, located in Middlefield, offers an extensive selection of tomatoes among its vast array of pick-your-own produce. The Farm’s picturesque landscape and family-friendly atmosphere make it a popular destination.
Visitors can enjoy not just tomato picking but also a range of other activities like golfing, visiting the corn maze, or grabbing a bite at their outdoor farm market. The Farm’s commitment to sustainability ensures that each tomato is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Also Read: 10+ Best Berry Picking Farms in Connecticut: A Fun PYO Activity
8. Gotta’s Farm
- Amenities: Farm stands with fresh produce and flowers.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM, during picking season.
- Additional Info: Visit their website or call for the most up-to-date picking schedule.
- Address: 661 Glastonbury Turnpike, Portland, CT 06480
- Phone: (860) 342-1844
- Email: info@gottasfarm.com
- Additional Activity: Enjoy their farm stand with fresh produce and baked goods.
Gotta’s Farm in Portland is known for its quality produce and welcoming atmosphere. With a history dating back over 100 years, this Farm offers a variety of tomatoes for picking, along with peaches, apples, and other produce.
The on-site farm stand sells fresh fruits, vegetables, and flowers, making it easy to take a piece of the farm home with you.
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9. Belltown Hill Orchards
- Amenities: Bakery, farm market.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM – 6 PM, varies by season.
- Additional Info: Don’t miss their homemade pies and donuts.
- Address: 483 Matson Hill Rd, South Glastonbury, CT 06073
- Phone: (860) 633-2789
- Email: info@belltownhillorchards.com
- Additional Activity: Visit their farm store and bakery with fresh products.
Belltown Hill Orchards, located in South Glastonbury, boasts a wide variety of tomatoes and other fruits for picking. The Farm’s bakery is famous for its apple cider donuts and pies, offering a sweet treat after a day of picking. The Farm also features a market with homemade goods and fresh produce.
Also Read: Eco-Friendly Ways to Keep Your Home Cool in Early Summer
FAQs on Best U-Pick Tomato Farms in Connecticut
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, water, gardening gloves, and containers for your tomatoes.
It’s best to avoid picking in the rain or immediately after, as wet conditions can damage plants and make paths slippery. Always check the weather and with the Farm beforehand.
Policies vary by Farm, so it’s important to ask before bringing your pet along.
Ripe tomatoes will be firm, with a uniform color specific to their variety. Most farms provide guidance on selecting the best produce.
Wrapping up: The Best Pick Your Own Tomato Farms in Connecticut
Picking your own tomatoes in Connecticut is a rewarding experience that offers the freshest produce and a chance to support local farms. Each Farm listed provides a unique experience, from tranquil settings for a peaceful day out to family-friendly farms with a plethora of activities.
Exploring Connecticut’s tomato farms offers a delightful adventure that blends the joy of harvesting with the pleasures of the countryside. Don’t forget to gear up with essentials for a comfortable outing and enjoy the bounty of fresh tomatoes that Connecticut has to offer.
Remember to contact the Farm before visiting to ensure the best picking experience.
