U-Pick 101

U-Pick farms are one of the most rewarding ways to experience Kelowna’s agricultural heart. They allow you to harvest fresh produce yourself, then enjoy it on a picnic, at your vacation rental, or packed up to take home. It is the freshest farm-to-table experience you can have in the Okanagan.

When Blossom Begins

Orchards begin to bloom in April, filling the valley with fragrant colours. Apricots are the first to flower, followed by cherries and peaches, with apples blossoming last in mid-May. Blossom dates vary from year to year depending on the weather, but they mark the start of the growing season and make for a stunning time to visit.

When fruit is ready to be picked

The U-Pick season typically begins in late June or early July with cherries. Through summer and early fall, you can find peaches, nectarines, plums, pears, and more. Apples close the season by late October. Harvest dates also depend on weather, so it is always best to confirm before you go.

Before you start picking

Plan your route, as Kelowna and the surrounding area have many farms and orchards to choose from. While some provide bags or boxes, it is wise to bring your own. Keep in mind that U-Pick produce is sold by weight, so pick only what you can use. If you are unsure what is in season, contact the Kelowna Visitor Centre or use the website chat. And do not forget your camera—the orchard backdrops are beautiful in every season.

When you arrive

Be mindful that working farms can be busy, with equipment and staff moving about. Expect to get a little dirty, as orchard rows may be muddy after rain.

Picking Tips

Have fun, take photos, and share them with #exploreKelowna.
Learn the right technique for each fruit. Apples should be twisted and pulled, cherries picked from the stems.
Pick only in designated areas to ensure produce is fully ripe.
Ripe fruit comes off easily; if it resists, it is not ready.
Think about how much you will actually use—your eyes can be bigger than your appetite.
For a complete farm to table experience, plan a dinner out at one of Kelowna's best restaurants.

For a full farm-to-table experience, pair your harvest with dinner at one of Kelowna’s top restaurants. Flying home? The Farm to Flight program at Kelowna International Airport lets you take Okanagan fruit with you.