Every summer parents look for something new and fun to do with the family. And on the outskirts of Houston, local farmers have started growing blackberries and inviting people to bring their kid's [blackberry picking](http://jollisantfarm.com/blackberry-picking/). In the past, many people have enjoyed strawberry and blueberry picking at local farms, but this year one local farmer, Jollisant Farm has taken the lead in growing blackberries.

Local farmer Sandra Kuta at [Jollisant Farm](http://jollisantfarm.com/), said "it is so much fun to see people enjoy being outdoors and picking blackberries straight off the vine. I think people enjoy accomplishing something while having a good time." Blackberries have been sort of the step sister to the strawberry picking activity, but the blackberry bush is a hardy plant and can produce a lot of berries. With more and more folks looking for food grown without pesticides, local farmers are getting more inquiries from individuals looking for a place to pick their own produce. When folks can pick their own produce, they get the produce truly fresh!

Families especially enjoy this activity because it's outdoors, educational, and healthy! "My kids love picking blackberries and eating them. This year we have become quite good at making blackberry cobbler," said Shellie Heborn from Waller, TX. "We plan to make it an annual family activity.".

https://youtu.be/xp550K1g3cg

Local farmers are getting creative by using their farms for more than just growing vegetables. Many local farms have started advertising birthday parties, weddings, and special events. Farmers are more than happy to open up their open space to people looking for something different During the school year, local schools bring kids by the busload to see a working farm in action. "It's such a good educational opportunity to discuss with kids how food is grown and where it comes from." said one local school administrator.