August U-Pick: Peas and Potatoes

Woman showing small child potato picked from field

We’ll be harvesting some fan favorites at the August U-Pick at Food + Farm Exploration Center: green beans, wax beans, cucumbers, and Blushing Belle and Fontane potatoes. Join us for another U-Pick Harvest event, where all are welcome to pick and enjoy fresh, free produce straight from our demonstration fields.

Date: Tuesday, August 5th
Time: 5–7 PM
Details: Free (no advance registration required). Check the event page for more info.

We’ve expanded this community favorite to include a BBQ menu available for purchase and a bouncy house, so you can stick around and enjoy an evening filled with food, fun, and farm vibes. After picking, don’t forget to fill out our quick feedback form — you’ll be entered to win free admission to come back and explore our exhibits!

Please note: This event is weather dependent. Be sure to check our website or social media channels for any updates before attending.

Wondering what to do with your farm-fresh picks? Keep reading for easy storage tips and seasonal recipes to try in your kitchen.

Storage Tips

Green and wax beans mixed together in close up photo

Green & Wax Beans

  • Don’t wash or trim until ready to enjoy

  • Place in container or bag

  • Store in the fridge in a crisper drawer and use within a week for optimal flavor and texture

  • Freezing option: Wash, trim, dry then freeze for long term storage

 
Cucummber growing in sandy soil

Cucumber

  • Don’t wash until ready to enjoy

  • Place in container or bag

  • Store in the fridge in a crisper drawer and use within a week for optimal flavor and texture

  • Tip: Try wrapping individually in paper towel to extend shelf life

 
Red and yellow potatoes with direct on them fresh from the field

Blushing Belle & Fontane Potatoes

When properly stored, potatoes can last for months.

  • Do not store in the refrigerator

  • Do not wash with water before storing — simply brush off excess dirt

  • Store in a well-ventilated container (like an open box or basket) to prevent moisture buildup

  • Keep in a dark area to prevent sprouting and greening

  • Ideal storage temperatures are between 45–55°F (a cool, dry basement works well)

  • Store away from onions, as moisture from onions can shorten shelf life

 

Recipes to Try

These are two very special recipes for your produce. Get ready to try something new, and fresh at home.

Creamy Cucumber Salad
This recipe is straight from the Colorful Plate Café — a fresh twist on a classic summer favorite from our culinary team.

Green Bean, Tarragon & Potato Salad
Put your Blushing Belle potatoes and green beans to work in this flavorful, healthy salad from the Little Potato Company. Microwave-friendly and quick to prep.

 

Dig into the Journey from Seed to Store

Man with pitchfork harvesting fresh potatoes from the field.

Our U-Pick Harvest Days offer more than just free, fresh produce — they’re a unique, hands-on way to explore how food is grown right here in Wisconsin. As you harvest crops from our demonstration fields, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the people, processes, and innovation behind every bite. Our staff and volunteers will be there to assist, answer questions, and make your visit educational and fun.

These events are free and open to all — no registration required. Just check in with our team when you arrive and get ready to dig in!

Plan your visit and be sure to check our website or social media for the latest weather updates ahead of the event.

 
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Greenhouse Update: Systems, Crops, and What’s Next