While the weekend may have been a washout for strawberry picking, the season for hunting for berries is in full swing. Strawberry picking opened at Tougas Family Farm last Monday, and will continue until the berries are gone.
The somewhat unpredictable, and short, strawberry season can be frustrating for some.
"Every year, I try to time it just right," said Tania Rodriguez, who drove from Boston with her kids to pick strawberries, "because I'm usually late, and it makes me super anxious. You can't get anything that tastes like a fresh strawberry anywhere. I won't buy them from store."
She won't get tomatoes from the store, either, for that matter. Strawberries, tomatoes ... it's just not the same if it's not right off the plant.
Rodriguez headed out in the Tougas fields to pick, and was given instructions by Michael Gamache, who explained the ins and outs of the finicky season.Tougas is open for strawberry picking depending on three factors: when there is a supply; when the weather is appropriate; and what is available for picking.
"Call or check Facebook before you come in," said Gamache. "Definitely check ahead. Sometimes, we might be closed for two to three days if we get a lot of rain."
Hours for Tougas are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day, except Thursday, when the farm is open until 6:30 p.m.
The "picking line" is 508-393-6406, which gives updated information.