2024 Madison area of Wisconsin Eggplant U-Pick farms - PickYourOwn.org
Find a pick-your-own farm near you! Then learn to can and freeze! Since 2002 we update continuously; Beware the copycat websites!
Search pickyourown.org
Eggplant U-Pick farms in Madison area of Wisconsin in 2024, by county
Below are the U-Pick farms for eggplants that we know of in this area. Not all areas of any state, nor even every state, have eggplants orchards that are open to the public. If you know of any others, please tell us using the add a farm form!
Remember to always check with the farm's own website or Facebook page before you go - or call or email them if they don't have a website or Facebook page. Conditions at the farms and crops can change literally overnight, so if you want to avoid a wasted trip out there - check with the farm directly before you go! If I cannot reach them, I DON'T GO!
PLEASE report closed farms, broken links and incorrect info using the "Report Corrections" form below.
Search pickyourown.org
Dane County
The Tree Farm - asparagus, beans, beets, broccoli, carrots, Christmas trees, corn (sweet), cucumbers, eggplant (aubergine), flowers, peas, peppers, pumpkins, rhubarb, summer squash, winter squash, tomatoes, other vegetables. 8454 St Rd 19, Cross Plains, WI 53528. Phone: 608-798-2286. Email: treefarm@midplains.net. Open: May and June we sell asparagus and rhubarb by appointment; July and August we are open Wednesday, Thursdayand Friday, 9-noon and 4-8; Saturday and Sunday 9-5. Directions: The Tree Farm is located in Northwestern Dane County, WI, on Highway 19, four miles west of Highway 12. From Middleton take hwy 12 North and turn west \(that\'s left\) on hwy 19. From Sauk City take hwy 12 SE, turn south \(right\) on hwy KP and then east \(left\) on hwy 19. From Black Earth take hwy F north and turn east \(right\) on 19. See our website for a map and complete directions. . Click here for a map and directions. . September and October we are open Wednesday, Thurs, and Friday 9-noon and 4-dusk; Saturday and Sunday 9-5 Thanksgiving we are open Friday 1:30 to 4:30; Saturday and Sunday 9-4:30. is located in Northwestern Dane County, WI, on Highway 19, four miles west of Highway 12. From Middleton take hwy 12 North and turn west (that's left) on hwy 19. From Sauk City take hwy 12 SE, turn south (right) on hwy KP and then east (left) on hwy 19. From Black Earth take hwy F north and turn east (right) on 19. See our website for a map and complete directions. Click here for a map to our farm. We raise approximately 40 different kinds of vegetables and herbs for you to pick as well as flowers to cut. A complete list of what we raise and when we expect it to be ready is available on our web site. We raise most vegetables that will grown in our climate. A complete list is available on our web site. (Updated December 22, 2010X)
Sauk County
Eagleglen Farm - beans, beets, broccoli, carrots, corn (sweet), eggplants, herbs or spices, peas, pumpkins, tomatoes, other vegetables, porta-potties are available 4898 County Road GG, Loganville, WI 53943. Phone: 608-415-8516. Email: eagleglenfarm@gmail.com. Open: Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 5:30 pm and Sunday Noon - 5 pm. Directions: Corner of highway 23 and County Road GG, between Loganville and Plain, WI. . Click here for a map and directions. Payment: Cash, Check. Eagleglen Farm Facebook page. . Alternate Phone: 608-727-2281. . Bring your binoculars to see the eagles and their eaglets. Strawberries will be coming next year!. Comments from a visitor on August 25, 2011: "This is one of my favorites. It's on the small side, but has great blueberries and raspberries."
Eggplant
Eggplant Picking Tips, Recipes and Information
Most people are familiar with the large roundish dark purple/black eggplant used in making Eggplant Parmesan. But there are many other varieties with many
uses. Here's what you need to know about eggplants, how to choose them, how to harvest them and how to use them!
Know when to harvest eggplant:
Size and Color: Most eggplant varieties are typically harvested when they reach a mature size and have developed
a deep, glossy color. The skin should be uniformly colored, whether it's purple, green, or white, depending on the variety.
Texture: Gently press your
finger against the eggplant's skin. Ripe eggplants should feel firm but slightly yield to pressure. Avoid eggplants that have soft spots or are overly mushy.
Shiny Skin: Ripe eggplants have a shiny appearance, indicating that they are ready for harvest.
How to harvest eggplants
Tools: To harvest
eggplants, you'll need a pair of sharp garden shears or a knife.
Stems: Look for the stem attached to the eggplant. It should be firm and green. Avoid
harvesting eggplants with dry or withered stems.
Cutting: Hold the eggplant near the stem and carefully cut it off using the shears or a knife. Leave a
short portion of the stem attached to the fruit. Make sure not to damage the eggplant or nearby foliage during the process.
Sharp parts: watch out for the pointy edges at the base of the stem. They are SHARP!
Quantity: Harvest one eggplant
at a time, or if you have multiple ripe fruits, you can harvest them in a single session.
Storing eggplant
Handling: Handle harvested eggplants
with care to avoid bruising or damage. Place them gently in a basket or container to prevent them from being squished or bumped around.
Storage: If you're
not using the eggplants immediately, store them in a cool, dry place, such as the refrigerator. They can last for up to a week, but usually no longer, when properly stored. Avoid
washing the eggplants before storing, as moisture can promote spoilage.
Culinary uses: Once harvested, the eggplants are ready to be enjoyed in
various recipes. From grilling and roasting to stir-fries and bakes, there are numerous delicious dishes to explore with freshly harvested eggplants.
Remember, it's essential to harvest eggplants at the right time to ensure optimal flavor and texture. By paying attention to the size, color, texture, and stem
condition, you can confidently harvest ripe and flavorful eggplants for your culinary delights.
Varieties and Types of Eggplant
The most common types of eggplants and their uses are:
Globe Eggplant: The globe eggplant is the most common variety and is known for its large, round shape and glossy purple skin. It has a mild, slightly sweet
flavor and creamy texture when cooked. Globe eggplants are versatile and can be used in various dishes, including stews, curries, stir-fries, and grilled
preparations.
Japanese Eggplant: Japanese eggplants are long and slender with dark purple skin and a tender, delicate flavor. They have fewer seeds
and a sweeter taste compared to the globe variety. Japanese eggplants are perfect for stir-fries, tempura, roasting, or grilling. Due to their thin skin, they
cook quickly and can be used in recipes that require less cooking time.
Italian Eggplant: Also known as the "baby eggplant" or "aubergine," Italian
eggplants are small-sized with deep purple skin and a rich, slightly bitter taste. They have a firm texture and hold their shape well when cooked, making them
ideal for grilling, roasting, or stuffing. They are commonly used in Mediterranean dishes like ratatouille, caponata, or eggplant Parmesan.
Thai
Eggplant: Thai eggplants come in various colors and sizes, including green, white, or striped varieties. They are small and round, similar to cherry tomatoes.
Thai eggplants have a slightly bitter taste and firm texture. They are commonly used in Southeast Asian cuisine, particularly in curries, stir-fries, and spicy
salads.
Indian Eggplant: Indian eggplants, also known as "brinjals" or "baingan," have a small to medium size and come in different shapes and colors,
such as round, elongated, or striped varieties. They have a slightly bitter taste and a dense, meaty texture. Indian eggplants are frequently used in
traditional Indian recipes like baingan bharta (roasted and mashed eggplant), curries, pickles, or stuffed dishes.
White Eggplant: White eggplants
have a unique appearance with creamy white skin. They are similar in shape and size to the globe variety but have a slightly milder taste. White eggplants are
often used in dishes where their color stands out, such as stir-fries, casseroles, or salads. They can also be grilled or baked for a subtle and elegant
presentation.