August U-Pick: Green beans, Cucumbers and Potatoes
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 & 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
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
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
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.