Oregon’s U-pick farms are so bountiful in the Salem area, even locals can find themselves scratching their heads about what’s in season, which farms to visit, and what to bring to the picking party.

Though every farm has its own rules, there are some universal tips for beginner U-pickers that can make the experience a win for everyone, including our local growers. Read on for ideas on how to reap the most from the Salem area’s summer harvest and then load up on juicy picks at one of the many local U-pick farms.

Oregon’s berry season kicks off in June with strawberries and raspberries; cherries also begin to pop in June, so ready your baskets. The bounty continues in July when blackberries, blueberries, boysenberries and Oregon’s own marionberries plump to perfection. Tree fruits come on in July—apricots, nectarines and peaches—and end of summer is ripe time for apples, pears and plums. Regardless what and when you’re picking, bone up on proper picking etiquette so that you can choose the ripest fruit and are kind to the plants and trees.

Most farms offer updated information about their policies and which fruits and berries they have available for U-pick on their website and Facebook page. Do your research before you drive out, as some farms provide containers at a small price while others ask that you bring your own. Smaller farms may only accept cash or check and some require reservations for large groups. Some U-pick farms even have bakeries, stores, picnic tables and food carts, which can help you plan ahead for lunch.

Outfit your family with comfortable closed-toe shoes, long pants, long-sleeved shirts and hats to protect them from prickly vines, bees and the sun. Bring sunscreen and plenty of water, and it’s best to arrive when the farm first opens because the sun will be less intense. As smaller farms can get picked out by early afternoon, the early bird literally gets the worm—or blueberry.

Many U-pick farms are also someone’s home, so it’s best to leave everything as you found it. Please be mindful of the farm and other pickers by driving slowly, following rules and getting permission before exploring non-designated areas. Please also be gentle with plants and trees and watch the kids around farm animals. Patience, understanding and cooperation will ensure your day of U-picking is fun for all.

No matter where you are in the Salem region, there’s likely a U-pick farm within short driving distance. Family-owned Fordyce Farm and organic Minto Island Growers in Salem offer up-to-date U-pick information on their sites. In Marion County, check out Hubbard’s Boones Ferry Berry Farms and grab a handmade pie from their store while you’re there; Beilke Family Farm in Brooks has a 10-acre U-pick apple orchard, and Greens Bridge Gardens in Jefferson has sweet berries galore—including seasonal tayberries, a cross between a blackberry and raspberry. Bring your containers, kids and cash to Perryhill Farm in Dallas for an afternoon of picking cherries, peaches, plums and apples in Polk County.

These Salem-area U-pick farms are just a few to get you started. More farms are out there and waiting. Happy picking!