A Day in the Countryside: Your Guide to U-Picks and Farm Stands

Sunflowers at Robert Is Here Photo: Dex Mission

Homestead and the Redland in South Miami-Dade and Davie and Southwest Ranches in Broward County may be less than an hour away from urban Miami and Fort Lauderdale. But the wide-open fields, less-trafficked roads, and livestock make it feel like you’re far from home. As development encroaches, these traditional agricultural districts are shrinking. But you can still find places to explore, pick strawberries, flowers and tomatoes, take pictures amid fields of sunflowers, watch goats and tortoises and relax in the subtropics.

U-picks and Farmstands

In Miami-Dade, look for roadside stands along SW 216th St., Krome Ave., SW 248th St. and SW 187th Avenue, among others. Not all produce sold at farmstands is local, depending on the season. Strawberries are typically in season in late Dec. and early Jan. through March and sometimes April.

Want to pick your own?
• Wear wide-brimmed hats, sneakers or garden clogs.
• Leave pets at home. Most u-picks don’t allow them.
• Don’t forget sunscreen. Stay hydrated.
• Most u-picks provide you with a bucket or basket for picking.
• When you’re done, you pay by the pound. Some are cash only.