U-Pick
SOUR CHERRIES
Mon-Friday: 8am - 6pm
Saturday: 8am - 4pm
Sunday: 11am - 3pm
Mon-Friday: Check in at the Market
SAT & SUN: Go directly to U-Pick Area
HOURS
CHECK-IN
U-Pick hours are different than market hours.
U-PICK RULES
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Please don't climb the fruit trees or step directly on growing plants!
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Please don't leave trash behind.
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NO pets are allowed in the U-Pick areas.
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If you use the restroom before going to pick cherries, please wash your hands before entering the field.
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Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
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Please be respectful to others who are picking cherries.
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Have fun and enjoy!
Please call before coming to find out about the picking conditions, (717) 564-3130.
Tart, juicy, and bursting with flavor—sour cherry season is here! At Strites' Orchard, we invite you to enjoy the simple pleasure of picking your own sour cherries straight from the tree. Whether you're baking pies, making preserves, or freezing for later, there's nothing like the taste of freshly picked cherries.
What are Sour Cherries?
Sour cherries (also known as tart or pie cherries) are prized for their bright, tangy flavor and are perfect for:
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Homemade pies and cobblers
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Jams, jellies, and preserves
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Sauces and syrups
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Freezing for year-round use for baking
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Drying for snacking
Prep for Picking Tips:
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Wear comfortable shoes and clothes..
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Come early for the best selection!
We recommend that you come out for picking in the morning when it's cooler so it's an enjoyable experience. However, if you come in the afternoon be sure to stop by the market to cool off with some ice cream or a fruit slushy!
Our pick-your-own sour cherry season typically open mid-June through the end of June. This is subject to change depending on how to weather effects the cherry growing season. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram to receive updates.
U-Pick Common Questions
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WEEKDAYS: During weekdays check in at the market, before heading out to the field please stop in the market to pick up a U-Pick container.
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WEEKENDS: On weekends, check-in at the designated U-Pick Area.
Do we need to bring containers for sour cherry picking?
No, we provide U-Pick containers for you to pick your sour cherries.
Do you have pre-picked sour cherries?
YES, we have fresh picked sour cherries available daily (during sour cherry season), but please call before coming to be sure we haven't sold out for the day (717) 564-3130.
🍒 PICKING TIPS:
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Color & Shape: Ripe sour cherries are ripe when they are vibrant red, slightly soft, and come off the stem easily.
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Avoid cherries that are pale, underripe, or overly soft.
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Pick with the Stem Attached: Leaving the stem on helps cherries stay fresh longer and reduces bruising.
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Container: Cherries bruise easily—place them gently into your container and avoid overfilling.
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Pick in the Morning: Cooler temperatures help preserve freshness and firmness.
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Washing: Wait to wash your, washing too early adds moisture, which can lead to mold or spoilage.
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Storage: After picking, refrigerate cherries as soon as possible after picking. Store them unwashed in a breathable container or loosely covered bowl.
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Use within 2-3 days: For best flavor and texture, enjoy fresh cherries within 2–3 days.
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Freeze to enjoy later: Pit and freeze cherries in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for long-term storage. Once frozen, transfer to airtight freezer bags or containers. They’ll keep for up to 12 months.
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How to enjoy Sour Cherries: Preserve with Canning or Drying. Sour cherries are excellent for making jams, pie fillings, or drying for snacks.
SAFETY
To keep you safe and prevent damage to our cherry trees please DO NOT climb the cherry trees. We want you to have an enjoyable experience, so we do our very best to make sure the grass is cut around our cherry trees. Please help us by picking up your trash. Thanks so much!
Are pets allowed in the U-Pick sour cherry area?
NO, pets are not allowed in the pick your own areas for health and food safety reasons.
LOCATION
1000 Strites Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17111
