Every June, the red strawberries are ripe! One of the best things for New Yorkers to do is to pick strawberries from farms as the naturally ripe strawberries are irresistibly delicious with their vibrant red color and generous size!

Tips for a successful strawberry picking experience:

1. Choose the color: Opt for fully red strawberries as they are ripe and sweet. Avoid picking pink strawberries as they are not yet ripe and may taste sour.

2. Look at the size: While larger strawberries may seem enticing, heavy rain can cause them to absorb water and lose sweetness. Select strawberries that have a complete appearance and a uniform red color for better taste and storage.

3. Choose the container: Strawberries are delicate and can get easily crushed. Pack them in a larger cardboard box, ensuring they are spread out and not stacked on top of each other to prevent damage.

4. Consumption in moderation: Strawberries are nutritious but have a cooling effect on the body. Avoid consuming too many at once to prevent discomfort caused by excessive coldness in the stomach.

5. Dress appropriately: Wear insect-proof and sun-protective clothing and pants when visiting strawberry fields. Avoid rainy days as it can make the terrain muddy and challenging to navigate.

Six popular strawberry farms in New York worth visiting:

1. Alstede Farms, New Jersey

Enjoy picking strawberries, blueberries, apples, peas, tomatoes, and seasonal flowers on a 600-acre farm located just over an hour's drive from New York.

2. Lewin Farms, Long Island

This historic farm offers year-round picking events, including strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, peaches, and more. Explore their corn maze and pumpkin patch.

3. Garden of Eve, Long Island

Certified organic farm supporting the picking and sale of organic fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Experience lavender and sunflower fields, a petting zoo, hayrides, and other activities.

4. Mattituck Strawberry Festival, Long Island

Join the annual strawberry festival featuring fresh strawberry picking, thrilling rides, strawberry-themed treats, and a spectacular fireworks show.

5. Ochs Orchard, New Jersey

Enjoy fruit picking and visit the petting zoo. Pick strawberries, blueberries, tomatoes, peaches, and more.

6. Terhune Orchards, New Jersey

This expansive farm in New Jersey spans over 225 acres and offers a delightful array of pick-your-own options including strawberries, blueberries, and cherries. It even features a petting zoo where you can see lambs, foals, ducklings, and chicks.

The above are several options for strawberry picking in New York. Plan your visit, indulge in the sweetness of freshly picked strawberries, and create unforgettable memories in the lush strawberry fields.