How to Pick Your Own Oranges in DeLand, Florida

If you live in or near DeLand, Florida, then you know oranges grow well in your climate. In fact, DeLand is where the Hamlin orange was discovered in 1879. Oranges in general are ripe from fall until spring and different varieties are picked at different times. For example, navel oranges are ready in November, temple oranges are harvested beginning in February and Valencias are available starting in March. You don't need your own orchard to harvest oranges; you can find a farm nearby where you can pick your own.

Instructions

- 1
  Locate a pick-your-own farm, commonly called "U-Pick" farms, where consumers can pick oranges. Check online sites such as volusia and pickyourown (see Resources). They list pick-your-own orange orchards in the area.
- 2
  Call the farm to verify that the oranges are ready for harvest and that they allow customers to pick them. Inquire about the varieties of oranges they have and their hours and rates.
- 3
  Bring your own bucket, bag or basket sufficient for the amount of oranges you want to pick.
- 4
  Pull gently on an orange; it should come off the stem without much resistance if it is ripe. If you do feel resistance, it probably is not ripe yet. Look for oranges that are rounded, not misshapen, and with relatively smooth skins. Hold an orange in your hand before picking it to determine how heavy it feels. If it feels light for its size, it probably is not yet ripe. Be careful not to bruise or damage the oranges when you place them in your container.

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