Soft opening at Littlewood Berry Farm as fickle weather persists

IT’S hard to believe with the fickle weather conditions, but strawberry season is upon us.

Sophie Nichols, from Littlewood Berry Farm near Richmond, says strawberry season should be in full swing by late next week. Picture: KIM EISZELE

IT’S hard to believe with the fickle weather conditions, but strawberry season is upon us.

Littlewood Berry Farm, between Puddleduck Vineyard and The Wicked Cheese Company near Richmond, opened the gates yesterday for consumers to pick their own punnets of fresh strawberries.

Farmer and owner Sophie Nichols said she was only opening the farm again on Thursday this week because of the unreliable weather.

“With a bit more reliable weather and some more sun, we possibly could be in full swing late next week,” Ms Nichols said.

“All our produce is chemical and spray free, so we work hard to make sure our plants stay healthy and happy.

“We have no entry fee to the patch, but our motto and what we stand by is pay for what you pick and respect the patch.”

Fruit patch manager Laura Scaife said after six years in operation at the farm, this year was shaping up as one of the best.

“We are seeing great fruit come along and as we get more sun it will ripen. We spend a lot of time in the off-season tidying plants for peak harvest,” Ms Scaife said.

During peak season, the farm also grows mulberries, blueberries, raspberries and rhubarb.

Originally published as Soft opening at Littlewood Berry Farm as fickle weather persists