Looking for a sweet and affordable summer date idea? Let’s talk about flower picking. Flowers are a universal symbol of romance, and picking them together means you’ll spend time in nature, get to chat, and enjoy some quality, device-free time together. Plus, you get to keep a beautiful bouquet afterward. So, grab your date and get ready for a memorable day picking flowers together!
What’s a pick-your-own flower farm?
A pick-your-own flower farm, also called a U-pick farm, is like a huge garden where you can harvest your own flowers. These farms are usually open during the late spring and summer months, but some may be open all year round.
Some flower-picking farms have fruits or vegetables available to pick on-site too, so you can bring home dinner as well as decor. If you're looking for a romantic date idea that lets you get your hands dirty together, this could be the perfect plan.
Where to find a flower-picking farm
Local pick-your-own farms can be found quite close to large towns and cities, so even if your area feels more urban jungle than farm, you could still try this date idea. Search online using phrases like "PYO flower farms near me" or "u-pick flower farms in [your area]."
Remember to check out flower farm websites or social media pages for more info on their flower varieties, hours of operation, and any special events they might be hosting. Pro tip: local farmers' markets or community boards can be great info sources to find hidden gems in your local area.
Are PYO flowers ethical?
You might wonder if pick-your-own flower farms are good for the planet and a great date. Good news—many farms are eco-friendly and prioritize sustainable practices like organic farming and supporting local pollinators.
To make sure you're choosing an ethical PYO flower farm, do a little digging (pun intended) and find out if they use eco-friendly methods, like avoiding harmful pesticides and promoting biodiversity. Then, you can pick flowers together with a clear conscience and see if love blossoms organically (last one, we promise).
When to go flower-picking
We recommend that you go flower picking May through August, though different flowers will be in bloom depending on your location and the local weather. We’ll give you an idea of what flowers you can pick each month, but check in with the farm if you’re looking for something specific.
In May, the earliest blooms will be ready for picking. If you go on a flower-picking date, you might find lupines, poppies, tulips, and different daisy varieties. You’ll also likely see cute smaller wildflowers to pick, like forget-me-nots, bluebells, primroses, and cowslips.
Blooms ramp up in early June with a popular favorite—peony season. With their large petals and pink hues, these stunning flowers make for great picking and beautiful bouquets. You’ll also likely find roses, lilies, early sunflowers, gerberas, and salvias (great for drying into homemade potpourri).
Planning your flower-picking date
When you and your date arrive at the farm, you'll be greeted by rows of blooms waiting to be picked. Many flower farms provide buckets or baskets for you to gather your finds.
Once you've explored the fields and picked your fill, head to the checkout area where they'll tally up your blossoms. Many farms charge by the stem, bundle, or bucketful, so you can mix and match to create the perfect bouquet without worrying about keeping flowers separate when picking them.
What to wear
You can dress cute for a flower-picking date, but make sure you also hit comfort and practicality. Choose comfortable clothing like jeans or leggings and a breathable shirt, and wear sneakers or boots for walking in the fields.
A hat and sunscreen will keep you protected, and it's a good idea to bring a light jacket in case the weather changes. A reusable bag or basket for carrying your treasures home is a must—throw in some water, snacks, and sunglasses so you’re prepared for a great date.
Choosing flowers that will last
Blooms are usually at their freshest in the morning after a good dose of dew, so this is a great date choice for an AM meet-up.
Keep an eye out for healthy, vibrant flowers with perky petals and lush green leaves—that's the good stuff. Avoid drooping heads, discolored petals, or brown spots, as they're past their prime.
To pick a flower like a pro, gently hold the stem near the base and give it a sharp snip using a pair of garden shears or scissors. Your flower farm should have the right tools available, as cutting with blunt blades can introduce disease to the flowers. A nice clean cut can also help your blooms last as long as possible.
What to do with the flowers you’ve picked
After you've collected your flower bounty from the pick-your-own flower farm, you and your date can get creative.
If you’re making arrangements for your home or a gift, start by trimming the stems at a 45-degree angle. This improves the flowers’ access to water. Next, cut away any leaves or stems that will sit below the water line, as they will rot and kill your flowers fast. Then, grab a vase or a big jar, fill it with fresh water, and mix in some flower food if you've got it on hand.
Arrange your flowers by height and color, letting your inner artist shine. Pro tip: Pop your bouquet of fresh flowers in the fridge overnight, and they’ll stay fresh longer.
To keep your bouquet looking new, change the water every few days and snip off any wilted bits. But hey, flowers aren't just for vases—try pressing them, making potpourri, or even whipping up some edible flower treats. (Please double-check that your flowers are the edible kind first. If in doubt, don’t eat them.)
We think flower-picking date days are a beautiful choice for adding color and fun to your dating life, and we hope you feel prepared for a lovely day in the sun. Remember, the key ingredient is to relax and let love do its thing—because the best memories are made when you're having fun together.
