Marty Gordon
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The state of Virginia is home to over 30 family-owned “pick-your-own” blueberry farms, and one exists in Montgomery County – 3 Birds Berry Farm on Brooksfield Road in Prices Fork.
Blueberries ripen in mid-to-late summer, and picking your own berries has become more and more popular. Customers value the experience of picking their own berries right off the vine.
Bill Sembello, who is a Blacksburg Elementary teacher, and his wife, Irene Lamb, have owned and operated 3 Birds Berry since 2011. The local blueberry patch has been in production for 45-50 years total.
The patch sits on 12 acres of land with five currently in berry production. The endeavor is Sembello’s wife’s full-time job. His childhood included time spent in his family’s fruit orchards in West Virginia, and he didn’t bat an eye taking on the berry patch.
Berries ripen on the bush, a difference to many major companies that supply grocery chains as they are picked early for transport.
Sembello said that’s another reason for picking your own.
“You get a much juicer and ripened berry in comparison to those in the grocery store.”
There is also the nutritional value.
Blueberries are a nutritional super food, as a one cup serving is roughly 80 calories with four grams of fiber and is an excellent source of both vitamin C and K. They are also virtually fat-free and high in antioxidants.
Their deep blue color come from “anthocyanins,” a powerful plant compound and antioxidant that reduces inflammation and oxidative stress.
Health officials also point to the berries helping to lower cholesterol.
“I don’t know about that,” Sembello said, “but I know they taste really good and who doesn’t love a berry.”
Sembello also said “picking farms” turn into a family activity and one where parents can teach their children where their food comes from.
“I feel like it has gotten more popular since COVID and see people wanting to experience picking berries,” he said.
Over the years, he has seen several return customers with many harvesting bulk amounts to freeze for future use.
He does have to fight constant deer and bird problems, as wildlife love the berries.
“We take as many as we can to control the problem,” Sembello said, pointing to dancing air machines scattered through the patch.
He also points to the fact his patch is pesticide-free.
3 Birds Berry lost almost 50 percent of its overall crop because of frosty weather earlier this year but has swung open the gates and is available to visitors.
The local patch has 14 different kinds of blueberries with most not being found in any area store. A big factor is the fact Sembello has not raised prices in 15 years. All berries are $3 a pint or $20 a gallon. Visitors can use provided buckets or buy their own for minimal price. Fruit is picked by hand, and no bush shaking is allowed.
Raspberries and blackberries should be ready by late July. Their season will run from late July to mid-September. Blueberry season should stretch to mid-September. Tommy, the beekeeper’s honey, is also available at certain times.
The owner does recommend checking the patch’s social media, Facebook, for updates on picking hours, farm activities and product availability. Check out: 3 Birds Berry Farm.
A small pavilion also sits on the property and is available for weddings and birthday gatherings.
Editor’s note: This story is the second installment of a series of Farm to Table articles to be published throughout the summer.
