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The Ultimate Guide To G And S Orchards (2025–2026): 5 Must-Know Facts About Walworth's Premier U-Pick Farm

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G and S Orchards stands as one of the most respected and established family farms in the Greater Rochester area, providing high-quality fresh fruit and vegetables for over three decades. As of December 2025, the farm is currently closed for the winter season, but preparations are already underway for the highly anticipated 2026 growing and U-Pick season, which typically begins in late spring. This comprehensive guide provides the freshest, most up-to-date information on the farm's history, its diverse offerings, and what visitors can expect from their renowned You-Pick experience in Walworth, New York.

The farm, located at 825 Atlantic Ave (Route 286), is a cornerstone of Wayne County agriculture, having successfully transitioned from a solely processing-focused operation to a vibrant direct-to-consumer destination. Whether you are a local looking for a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) share or a family planning a seasonal outing, G and S Orchards offers a genuine, high-quality farm experience.

The Family Story: Who Are G and S?

The "G and S" in G and S Orchards refers to the dedicated owners, Gary Craft and Stephanie Ludwig. Their journey began in 1992 when they took a significant plunge and purchased the existing 130-acre fruit farm in Walworth, New York, from its previous owner, Herb Smith.

  • Founding History: While Gary and Stephanie took over in 1992, the original farm property boasts a deep history, having been established in the early 1800s.
  • The Transformation: When the Crafts purchased the land, it was 100% dedicated to processing fruit. They recognized a growing demand for fresh, high-quality produce and strategically transitioned the farm into a full-time fruit and vegetable operation focusing on direct sales, their popular U-Pick program, and CSA shares.
  • Farm Size: Today, the real working farm spans between 150 and 210 acres, specializing in crop diversity and exceptional flavor.
  • Core Philosophy: The owners have made quality and crop diversity the hallmark of their operation, ensuring that whether you visit the Farm Stand or pick your own produce, you are getting the best of the season.

5 Key Facts for Your 2026 G and S Orchards Visit

Planning a trip to G and S Orchards requires knowing the seasonal rhythm of the farm. The following facts are essential for maximizing your experience during the upcoming 2026 season.

1. The U-Pick Schedule is Massive and Diverse

G and S Orchards is not just an apple farm; it offers one of the most comprehensive U-Pick (You Pick) schedules in the Rochester, NY, and Finger Lakes region, with fresh produce available from early summer through late fall.

  • Early Summer (Starting June): The season typically begins with a burst of berries, including Strawberries, Blackberries, Raspberries, and Juneberries.
  • Mid-Summer (Starting July): As the heat rises, the harvest moves to Blueberries, Currants, and both Dark and White Sweet Cherries.
  • Fall (September/October): This is the peak season for tree fruit, with a spectacular variety of Apples (over 19 varieties) and Pumpkins.
  • Vegetables: Beyond fruit, the farm grows a wide array of vegetables for its Farm Stand and CSA, such as Arugula, Beets, Broccoli, and Cabbage.

2. The Apple and Pear Selection Boasts Over 19 Varieties

The farm is a destination for serious apple enthusiasts, offering a massive selection that caters to every taste, from baking to fresh eating. The orchard features many popular and classic varieties, guaranteeing a bountiful harvest every fall.

Top apple and pear varieties available at G and S Orchards include:

  • Premier Apples: Gala, McIntosh, Honeycrisp, Cortland, and the heirloom Twenty Ounce apple.
  • Pears: They also offer delicious pear varieties such as Bartlet Pears (early September to early October), Seckel Pears (late September to late October), and Bosc Pears (early October to early November).

3. The Pumpkin Fiesta is the Ultimate Fall Event

In the autumn, the farm transforms into a family-friendly destination centered around its famous Pumpkin Fiesta. This event runs on weekends throughout September and October and is a major draw for families across the region.

Visitors can choose between picking their own pumpkins directly from the vine in the patch or selecting from the already-picked gourds and winter squash at the Farm Stand. The fiesta atmosphere is perfect for fall outings, often including mini pumpkins and decorative gourds for sale. The farm's proximity, just 15 short minutes east of downtown Rochester, makes it an easy day trip destination.

4. The CSA Program Offers Half and Whole Shares

For those interested in weekly access to the freshest produce, the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program is an excellent option. By joining the CSA, members purchase a "share" of the farm's harvest at the beginning of the season, directly supporting local agriculture and receiving a weekly box of seasonal bounty.

  • Share Types: G and S Orchards offers both Half Shares and Whole Shares to accommodate different family sizes and consumption needs.
  • Pickup Locations: Shares are typically picked up weekly throughout the harvest season, either directly at the farm's Walworth location or at the Fairport Farmers Market.
  • Enrollment: For the most current information on CSA pricing and enrollment for the upcoming 2026 season, interested parties are advised to contact Stephanie Ludwig directly via email, as the farm is closed for the winter.

5. How to Get the Most Current U-Pick Information (2026 Season)

Since the farm is a real working operation, the availability of specific fruit and vegetables is always dependent on weather and harvest conditions. To ensure you have the most current information for your 2026 visit, there are three reliable sources:

  • The Farm's Website: The official G and S Orchards website is continually updated, with the copyright already reflecting the 2025 season. The Full Picking Schedule is the best resource for planning.
  • The Hotline: The farm maintains a dedicated hotline that provides specific details regarding pricing and current availability.
  • Social Media: The farm's Facebook page is frequently updated with the latest news, including sudden changes in availability or special events.

Visitors should always check these sources before driving out, as U-Pick times, dates, and prices are subject to change based on the daily harvest.

The Ultimate Guide to G and S Orchards (2025–2026): 5 Must-Know Facts About Walworth's Premier U-Pick Farm
g and s orchards
g and s orchards

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