If you’ve been one of the devoted followers of Farmer Mike’s U Pick, we have some exciting news! The beloved U-pick farm is all set to open in South Fort Myers. In just a week’s time, you’ll be able to enjoy their fresh fruits and handpicked veggies.
A Bounty of Nature in South Fort Myers
For those who appreciate the wholesome charm of farm-to-table goodness, this is exciting! Farmer Mike’s U Pick is tentatively scheduled to open next week on Gladiolus Drive, west of Summerlin Road. With over 30 years of family farming heritage in Bonita Springs, Mike Clevenger, a third-generation farmer, is poised to extend the harvest to Fort Myers.
The farm’s grand opening is pegged for no later than September 29th, just in time to kick off the fall festival season. However, there’s quite a bit of groundwork to be laid, primarily centered around the restoration of the open-air store that sits the site.
From Pumpkins to Purple Cauliflower: A Farm for All Seasons
If you’ve visited the Bonita farm, you’ll find the same delightful array of fruits and vegetables waiting for you in Gladiolus. Whether you’re in the mood for pumpkin picking, tomato treasure hunting, or basking in the sunflower fields, your seasonal desires will be fulfilled.
And when it comes to fresh produce, Farmer Mike’s is all about variety. At the Gladiolus storefront, you’ll discover over 300 different types of vegetables, all sourced from the Bonita farm. From purple cauliflower to purple broccolini and the quirky charm of eight-ball squash, your culinary journey is bound to be a colorful one.
A Year-Round Food Oasis
What sets the Gladiolus location apart is its year-round accessibility. Unlike the Bonita farm, which operates seasonally, this new site is geared up to be your go-to destination for fresh-picked veggies from October through the middle of June. And even when the local fields take a rest, they’ll be sourcing the freshest fruits and vegetables from partner farms up north.
Beyond Veggies: The Culinary Connection
While Farmer Mike’s U Pick has become a household name for its farm-fresh vegetables, there’s more here than meets the eye. In fact, their largest slice of revenue comes from supplying their greens to restaurants, sub shops, and high-end hotels spanning from Tampa to Marco Island. Recently, they’ve expanded their distribution network, reaching as far as Miami and Florida’s east coast.
So, as you gear up to explore Farmer Mike’s U Pick, remember that you’re not just stepping into a farm; you’re stepping into a local food legacy, where fresh is a way of life. Mark your calendars and we’ll see you at the farm!