Spring has arrived, and that means it’s time for cherry pickers to rejoice as Lodi Blooms kicks off its U-Pick cherry season! This charming orchard in the heart of the San Joaquin Valley invites visitors to pluck their own delicious Coral Champagne cherries right from the trees. There’s something magical about picking fruit directly from the source, and trust us, once you sample these juicy treasures, you won’t be able to leave without filling up your bag.
James Chinchiolo, the orchard’s owner and a fourth-generation cherry farmer, is all about ensuring that your cherry-picking experience leaves a lasting sweet taste. He shares a tip that might just change your picking game:“The blacker the berry, the sweeter the juice.”And judging by the glowing reviews from excited visitors, it seems they’re ready to heed his advice. With cherry levels at an all-time sugar high this year, it’s easy to see why everyone’s buzzing about this local gem.
For those planning a family outing, the cherry-picking season runs from Mother’s Day weekend through Memorial Day weekend—perfect timing for a spring celebration. So, gather the family, grab some sun hats, and make a day of it! Just be warned: you might return home with more cherries than you originally planned. After all, it’s hard to resist taking home a bit of summer goodness!
About the Author
Andrew Johnson
Andrew Johnson is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.
