A Short Guide to Pumpkin Picking in Braintree
Thinking about going pumpkin picking with the family this October? Is it your first time?
Ross McGowan
04/09/2023
If you would like to go pumpkin picking and you’ve never done this activity before, then we’ve written a short guide that should help make your day-out even more enjoyable. Below, we look at what pumpkin picking involves and what you should know. Keep reading to learn more. If you’re interested in pumpkin picking in Braintree, Hatter’s Farm is the number one patch to visit.
Choosing the Right Pumpkin
When it comes to pumpkin picking, selecting the right pumpkin is crucial. This means you need to think about what you intend to do with the pumpkin. If you plan to carve it, a medium to large pumpkin with a flat base might be ideal. When you are pumpkin picking, make sure you inspect the pumpkins for quality, looking for any bruises, soft spots, or cracks. A firm stem is usually a good sign of a healthy pumpkin. Whether you like knobbly pumpkins, large ones, tiny ones or colourful ones, you’ll definitely be able to find the perfect pumpkin for you.
Follow the Farm’s Guidelines
Safety should be an important priority during your pumpkin picking outing. When you come to the farm, it’s key to stick to the farm's guidelines, such as staying in designated areas. If you have children with you, make sure you keep an eye on them to ensure they are safe and respectful of the farm's property. Likewise, it’s a good idea to wear appropriate footwear for walking in fields, such as boots as the terrain might be uneven or muddy.
Be Mindful of the Environment
Thirdly, it’s essential to always be mindful of the environment when pumpkin picking. For example, consider bringing reusable bags or containers to carry your pumpkins, reducing the need for single-use plastics. Overall, by supporting a local farm like Hatter’s farm, you can contribute positively to the local economy and sustainable agriculture in the local area.
Enjoy the Additional Activities
There are many other activities to do, you’re not limited to just pumpkin picking. If you are planning on visiting, it’s a good idea to check the website or ask staff to learn more about activities like the maze, hay bale mountain and more. These activities can add to the fun and make your outing a more memorable experience. Don't forget to bring a camera, as our pumpkin patch offers a beautiful backdrop for your photos.
Post-Picking Care
Once you've picked your perfect pumpkin, make sure you handle it with care during transport to prevent bruising or damage. If you're not using the pumpkin right away, store it in a cool, dry place. Proper storage will help maintain the pumpkin's quality until you're ready to carve it or use it in your favourite recipes.
Book Pumpkin Picking in Braintree
If you want to go pumpkin picking in Braintree, then Hatter's Farm is the best place to go. We have Pick Your Own Pumpkin days, with tickets on sale in August. Located on the Hertfordshire and Essex border, we've cultivated thousands of pumpkins in over 50 varieties.
Whether you prefer knobbly, giant, tiny, or colourful ones, we have the perfect pumpkin for you. Enjoy our Pumpkin Cannons and Maize Maze, and don't miss our special Pumpkin Nights event from the 21st to 24th and 26th to 29th of October. Open on select dates, we're easily accessible from Braintree, Cambridge, and surrounding areas.
Any questions? Contact us on 07585 224 196 or email us at hattersfarmpumpkins@outlook.com and we’ll respond as soon as possible.