Recently, I was delighted to discover Linley Plantation U-Pick Saskatoon Berries right across the highway from Bethune. While I am slowly cultivating different types of berries on our property, I have yet to plant Saskatoon berries though these are one of my favourites. I knew I had to make a trip to the farm and stock up on some Saskatoons.
Once I got the idea of berry picking in my head, I knew I wouldn’t be content with just one type of berry, no matter how much I love them. I started researching what other u-pick options are available nearby.
In the Moose Jaw area there is Bend in the River Berries. I have enjoyed time at this delightful place in the past. Currently, they have Saskatoon berries, raspberries, gooseberries and cherries available for picking. It is a scenic place and on our last visit we were even treated to an air show while pilots from the nearby air base practiced. Our day was rounded out with a fabulous milkshake from their gift shop.
In the Saskatoon area, there is The Berry Barn. Though I have visited its restaurant and strolled the beautiful grounds, I have yet to visit the u-pick part of the property. It currently has Saskatoon berries ready to be picked. I also discovered Rhodes’ Raspberries and Black Currants outside of Saskatoon. They too have Saskatoon berries ready and their raspberries have just ripened. They will have black currants ready this month. However, it looks like I might have missed out this year on haskaps.
Like Saskatoon berries, haskaps are a fruit I only discovered after moving to Saskatchewan. I have come to love these little berries so much that this spring I ordered 10 haskap plugs from a local online business, Haskap Girl, to start my own little crop.
Berries are amazing fresh, and I do love a good pie. However, whenever I go berry picking the majority seem to end up in the freezer so I can enjoy in smoothies and a few baked treats throughout the year.
Berries are full of antioxidants, high in fibre, low in calories and provide many nutrients. For me, the act of setting aside a little time to go berry picking each summer is invigorating and rewarding as I enjoy the fresh air, sunshine, and create memories with family and friends.
(Denise Leduc is a registered yoga teacher and fitness instructor. Her yoga and fitness studio, Living Sky Yoga & Fitness is based out of Davidson where she teaches yoga, BarreAbove, Tabata GX and Zumba. She also takes her classes to several other small towns in the area.)
-Denise Leduc