Lavender and peonies and dahlias, oh my! Looking to add a splash of color to your summer adventures? The Rochester, MN, area is blooming with delightful u-pick flower farms where you can handpick your own bouquets, enjoy a variety of seasonal events, and maybe even learn a thing or two. No matter if you’re planning an adventurous family outing, a romantic date, or a creative day out with your girls, these Minnesota farms deliver photo ops, fresh air, and floral fun in spades.
Why Pick Local?
But first, why head out into a local flower field with shears in hand? Well, for starters, picking your own bouquet is just plain fun. It’s hands-on, meditative, and a downright delightful way to spend time outdoors. And, since many nearby farms also host special events like workshops and wine tastings, you can easily turn your flower shopping into a full-on outing.
What’s more, locally grown flowers are fresher, healthier, longer-lasting, and often more unique than their store-bought counterparts. And because they don’t travel thousands of miles to reach your vase, these blooms tend to be more vibrant, more fragrant, and less reliant on preservatives, plastic wrap or pesticides. Plus, many flower farms also grow specialty varieties you won’t find in traditional floral shops. Not to mention, when you buy flowers from a u-pick farm, you’re getting more than a pretty bunch of petals. You’re also supporting small, local businesses rooted in your community (pun fully intended).
U-Pick Flower Farms in the Rochester Area
Ready to ditch the delivery van and embark on your own bouquet-building adventure? Here’s where to go for a bloomin’ good time in and around Rochester.
Iron Butterfly Flower Farm
Nestled in northeast Rochester, not far from Quarry Hill Nature Center, Iron Butterfly Flower Farm invites you to slow down and smell the snowdrops (lilacs, peonies, and hellebores, too). Specializing in early spring blooms and native plants, this Rochester flower farm offers a serene setting for your next nature session. Bloom bars (i.e., build-your-own bouquet events with precut flowers) are offered on select dates in May and June, while you-pick events are typically held once a month in July and August, though more might be added as the season allows.
Pricing: Varies by flower type, ranges from $1 to $5 per stem
2080 Viola Rd NE, Rochester, MN 55906
Buzzin’ Blooms
Hidden away in the countryside just northwest of Rochester, Buzzin’ Blooms lives up to its name with vibrant flowers, busy pollinators, and a calendar of fresh events (wine tastings with a garden tour, anyone?). Though this Rochester flower farm largely offers bouquets on a subscription basis, u-pick sessions are also offered on select dates, with a wide array of tulips available in spring and dahlias during the summer months, as well as fillers like yarrow and scabiosa. Check out their website for information on upcoming u-pick dates, bloom bars, and other events.
Pricing: Varies
1475 90th St NW, Rochester, MN 55901
Berry & Bloom Farm
Located less than 30 minutes from Rochester, Berry & Bloom Farm combines the joy of flower picking with the charm of a family-owned farm. Stroll through their sunflower fields or wildflower meadows, searching for the perfect stems to take home, or take part in events like workshops and photo sessions. Bloom season runs from mid-July through September, with u-pick available from sunrise to sunset on Monday to Saturday. A VIP pass is available for those who plan to visit multiple times throughout the growing season and includes five u-pick bouquets, first dibs on the farm’s blueberry fields, and a complimentary hour-long photo session.
Pricing: $7 for a mini bouquet, $28 for a field bouquet, and $65 for a three-gallon bucket
6945 150th Ave SE, Chatfield, MN 55923
Fischer Hill Flowers
Situated atop the beautiful Whitewater Valley, only a half hour from Rochester, Fischer Hill Flowers offers a picturesque setting for flower picking. Their easy-to-walk rows are lined with thousands of kaleidoscopic blooms, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon or a quick excursion from the city. Open on the weekends from July through September, the farm invites guests to meander the rows, build their dream bouquets, and pose for plenty of golden-hour selfies. Special events like yoga and sound healing in the fields, Snip & Sip days with wine and live music, and more are also available. You can even schedule a private flower party for you and your favorite anthophiles (that’s the fancy word for flower lovers).
Pricing: $25 for approx. 25-30 stems and $50 for approx. 60-70 stems
11098 Fischer Hill Dr, Plainview, MN 55964
Hidden Springs Peony Farm
Welcome to peony paradise! Hidden Springs Peony Farm specializes in these lush and fragrant — and, let me tell you, they know their stuff. The farm’s collection boasts over 600 varieties, including many heirlooms and highly collectible variations, which bloom in all their glory for just a few weeks from late May through mid-June. Though the flowers’ peak blooming period is relatively short, pick-your-own peonies sessions are available daily during regular business hours, no reservations needed. Along with u-pick peonies, visitors can also look for other natural treasures in the onsite garden center or take part in special events like succulent potting parties, picnics in the peony fields, photo shoots, and more.
Pricing: $30 for 10 stems
18581 Houston County Rd 4, Spring Grove, MN 55974
Blumen Acres
Tucked into southeastern Minnesota’s rolling hills, Blumen Acres specializes in dahlias and is home to more than 50 different varieties, as well as other unique annuals and perennials not typically found in your average flower shop. U-pick sessions are usually offered on select Sunday evenings from July to August. Simply buy a container, head for the fields, and cut as many flowers as you can fit. Spaces are limited, so be sure to reserve your spot ahead of time. Garden shears and flower food are provided.
Pricing: $10 for a kid’s cup, $30 for a small-mouth mason jar, and $45 for a large-mouth mason jar
33388 County 3 Blvd, Red Wing, MN 55066 and 45820 190th Ave in Zumbrota, MN 55992
Lavender Barnyard
Have you ever dreamed of strolling through a lavender field, Provence-style? Well, that dream can become a reality at Lavender Barnyard. Home to row upon fragrant row of lavender plants, this sweet-smelling spot is a heavenly place for a visit from April through September. However, June and July are when the purple blossoms really shine, and the scent alone is worth the trip. This cozy family farm typically offers u-pick sessions on Thursday to Sunday during peak growing months, while tours, photo shoots, and even lavender-growing consultations are also available. Booking a slot ahead of time is highly recommended. Not looking to take any lavender home? Stop by the farm for Unwind Wednesdays and enjoy some meditation and sound healing amongst the rows.
Pricing: Varies
6401 225th St W, Farmington, MN 55024
How to Have a Bloomin’ Good Time Flower Picking
Ready to take to the flower fields? Here are some quick tips to ensure your u-pick adventure is a success.
- Check Ahead: Always confirm bloom times, flower availability, and u-pick dates and remember that Mother Nature runs the show. Be sure to check the farm’s website or contact them directly so you aren’t out of luck.
- Bring the Essentials: While some farms provide tools, like clippers and containers, it isn’t a bad idea to bring a backup plan just in case.
- Dress for the Farm: Comfy, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking through fields, breathable clothing, and sun hats are your friends. And don’t forget the sunscreen!
- Stay Hydrated: Minnesota summers can be hot, hot, hot. So, bring along some water to stay hydrated during your visit.
- Capture the Moment: Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to take photos of your beautiful blooms and the picturesque farm settings. Although professional photography sessions typically require a fee and a reservation, selfies are encouraged.
- Plan for Extras: Many farms offer more than just u-pick flowers. Keep an eye out for workshops, wine tastings, picnics, or yoga to make a day out of it.
Have you ever been flower-picking before? Leave a comment below!
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