3 questions to ask when visiting a u-pick sunflower field this summer:

Sunflower season is fast approaching!

We all agree that there's something magical about wandering through endless rows of towering sunflowers. Visiting a sunflower field can be a delightful experience, offering stunning photo opportunities and a chance to connect with nature and friends. However, not all sunflower fields are created equal. Here are three essential questions to ask before you set out to explore a sunflower field this summer.

1. What’s in the field?
   Did you know that the majority of large sunflower fields use chemicals and harmful broadleaf killers to keep the weeds down? At minimum, large fields of sunflowers contain two pre-emergent weed killers sprayed directly onto the soil before the sunflowers even sprout. Then, after emergence, more weed killers are sprayed to get those nice clean rows we are all accustomed to. If there is nothing but clean dirt in between the rows, it’s safe to assume weed killers are present.
   

2. Is there an entrance fee and how much are the flowers?
   Most, if not all u-pick sunflower fields have an entrance fee they charge even before entering the field. This entrance fee can range from $5-$10 a person, depending on the farm and field. On top of that, most sunflower fields charge a price per stem once in the field. Meaning you have to be conscious about how many flowers you are picking while visiting. This can range from $1-$2 per stem. Again, depending on the field. This is by far the most important question to ask before visiting as you do not want to get hit with any surprise fees while enjoying your day out.
   

3. How crowded will it get?
   Some of us like to go into nature to escape the crowds and noise. Unfortunately, a lot of folks also have that same idea. It can frustrating to plan your visit to a sunflower field or farm only to find it overrun with crowds and an impossible parking situation. When visiting a sunflower field, ask how crowded it gets. Does the farm offer a reservation only approach where spots are limited to keep the crowds down to a manageable size and keep the experience intimate for everyone? Unfortunately, very few farms offer this type of experience.

At Timberline Farms in Hammonton, NJ we plant our sunflower field using natural growing practices. We plant early enough in the spring where we do not have t to use weed killers or harmful chemicals. Yes, are rows aren’t as pristine. But, nature isn’t perfect. Embrace and normalize those imperfections. Our sunflower field is also one flat price of $12 for the hour. Upon visiting, you get a bucket and some shears and you can pick as many sunflowers as you can fit into your bucket. You’ll also find that our u-pick sunflowers fields in south jersey do not get crowded. This is by design. We are reservation only and limit the amount of people that can be here within an hour. Your experience will be intimate and unique when visiting our small family sunflower farm.

Visiting a sunflower field can be a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and capture unforgettable memories. By keeping these three essential questions in mind, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and intimate experience for yourself and others. So, grab your camera, pack your sunscreen and water, and get ready to escape into a sea of sunflowers this summer.

We’ll see you soon.

Timberline Farms
1413 Mays Landing Road
Hammonton, NJ 08037