If you are looking for some family fun this summer, Noble Farms is a sweet secret tucked away just outside of Loop 289. The peach orchard is owned by the Nobles, who take care of it year-round. This time of year during harvest season they actually invite the community in to pick fruit.
“This is our second year of having peaches to be able to share,” says owner Sheela Noble. “We point out which varieties are ready for them to pick. They grab a cart and go on their own.”
Bridgette Cooper is a returning peach picker with her son, Evan, and she says it’s a really cool experience.
“It’s fun to pick your own and kind of see what kinds are out there. You can touch them, feel them, figure out which one you want,” she says. “You want them a little bit squishy and red…basically something that you know looks ripe and pretty.”
“And they’re so delicious,” says the Eichelberger family, a group of first time pickers. “They’re juicy and sweet and just awesome!”
The orchard offers 3 varieties of peaches, which ripen within a few weeks of each other.
“If you pick your own, it’s $2 per pound. If we pick it for you and we have it here, then it’s $3 per pound,” Noble says.
Noble also says she sees people of all ages that come to pick. She says it’s not only a good way to get exercise outdoors, but also a great educational opportunity for kids. They get to spend time with family while learning all about growing, picking, and eating healthy foods.
“You’re changing that next generation and their perspective of what good food is. They take that first bite of peach, and once they taste it, they’re going to get hooked. If they pick it, they are definitely going to eat it,” Noble says.
Peach picking just began at Noble Farms and will continue through August. If you want to head to the orchard, they are open Monday-Friday 8AM – 1PM and 5PM – 8PM, Saturday 8AM – 4PM, and closed on Sunday. They are located at 8009 County Road 6830.