July U-Pick: Peas and Potatoes

Demonstration Fields
Written By Caitlin Sparling
Family holding potatoes harvested from farm field

We’re kicking off the 2025 U-Pick Harvest Days at Food + Farm Exploration Center with a fresh and flavorful start. Join us for the first U-Pick event of the season, where all are welcome to harvest produce directly from our on-site demonstration fields and take home fresh, free produce.

Date: Tuesday, July 8th
Time: 5–7 PM
Details: Free (no advance registration required). Check the event for more details.

This month, you’ll have the chance to harvest green peas and red potatoes, two of our Wisconsin focus crops grown right here in our educational fields. Plus, attendees will have a chance to win free admission to explore the exhibits!

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

Wondering what to do with your freshly picked produce? We’ve got you covered with simple storage tips and tasty recipes to try at home.

Storage Tips

Green peas and one with open shell some deshelled on counter.

Peas

  • Don’t wash until ready to enjoy.

  • Place peas in a breathable bag (paper, cloth, or perforated plastic).

  • Store in the refrigerator, ideally in a crisper drawer. Use within a week for optimal flavor and texture.

  • To freeze for long-term storage: Wash and dry thoroughly. Freeze in an airtight container, removing as much air as possible. Optional: Blanch (90 seconds in boiling water) or shell peas before freezing.

 
Red Potatoes in Buckets after Harvest

Red 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

Bring your harvest home and try one of these easy, delicious recipes our team loves:

Grain Salad with Peas and Leeks
Customize with your favorite grain (we like farro or barley) and enjoy this healthy alternative to traditional pea salad.

Sausage and Potato Roast with Arugula
Double down on seasonal freshness by pairing this with arugula from your local farmers market. Directions are written for the oven, but the recipe can easily be adapted for the grill.

 

Experience the Field-to-Fork Journey

Our U-Pick Harvest Days are more than just a fun family outing. They’re a hands-on opportunity to connect with Wisconsin agriculture, learn how food is grown, and bring home something fresh to enjoy around your table. Staff and volunteers will be on-site to guide the picking process and answer questions.

These events are FREE and do not require registration. Simply check in with our team when you arrive! We can’t wait to welcome you into the field for the first harvest of the season.

Plan your visit and check for weather updates for our first U-Pick event of the 2025 season.

 
Caitlin Sparling
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