Tucked away in the warm embrace of eastern North Carolina, there is a place where the earth gives up its sweet treasures, and a family has dedicated itself to bringing fresh, wholesome produce to tables for generations. This is the story of Cottle Farms, a name that, you know, has become synonymous with delicious fruits and vegetables, especially those bright red strawberries everyone loves. For more than half a century, this family has poured their care and dedication into the very ground, bringing forth a bounty of fruits and vegetables that nourish communities far and wide. They have, in a way, built a reputation for quality that stretches back to a time when many of us were just little sprouts ourselves, truly a remarkable feat for any family-run operation.
From the moment a seed takes root in the earth, through the careful process of nurturing and harvesting, right down to the precise packing and sending out, whether it comes from their own fields or arrives from far-off places, the folks at Cottle Farms handle every single step of getting good, fresh food to people. They are, quite simply, deeply involved in every part of the journey from the farm to your plate. This commitment to the entire process is, as a matter of fact, a big part of why their produce has such a loyal following, and it's something you can really taste in every bite, too.
While they are known for a variety of produce, their connection with strawberries is, you could say, a particularly sweet one. Cottle Farms has, over the years, become one of the biggest growers of these juicy berries in the eastern part of North Carolina, and that's really saying something in a region known for its agriculture. They have, in some respects, made the strawberry a true symbol of their family's farming passion, and it's a sight to behold when the fields are bursting with ripe, red fruit, just waiting to be enjoyed by families and visitors alike, which is pretty special, honestly.
Table of Contents
- The Cottle Family Story - A Legacy of Goodness
- What Makes Cottle Farms Strawberries So Special?
- Picking Your Own Sweet Memories at Cottle Farms
- Beyond the Strawberry Fields - Cottle Farms' Reach
- Where Can You Find Cottle Farms' Freshness?
- A Commitment to Community and Learning
The Cottle Family Story - A Legacy of Goodness
The roots of Cottle Farms run deep, stretching back to 1964, a time when the family first began its journey in the world of growing food. For over five decades, the Cottle family has been diligently working the land, cultivating a wide array of fruits and vegetables. This isn't just a business for them; it's, you know, a way of life that has been passed down through generations. They have, in a way, poured their heart and soul into every aspect of farming, from the planting of tiny seeds to the final stages of getting fresh produce ready for people to enjoy. It's a continuous cycle of care and dedication that has, in fact, truly shaped who they are as a farming enterprise.
Their history is, you could say, rich with the stories of hard work and commitment to providing good, healthy food. The family has, in some respects, seen many changes in farming over the years, but their core mission to deliver quality has remained constant. They have, apparently, adapted and grown, always keeping an eye on how best to serve their community and beyond. This long-standing presence in the agricultural world means they have, literally, accumulated a wealth of knowledge and experience, making them true experts in their field, which is pretty impressive, really.
When you think about Cottle Farms, you are, in a way, thinking about a family that has dedicated itself to the land and to the people they feed. Their operations have expanded over time, but the personal touch of a family business remains at the core of everything they do. They have, in fact, provided great tasting strawberries to the public for three generations, a testament to their enduring commitment to a product they clearly love to grow. This kind of longevity in farming is, you know, quite a special thing, showing deep roots and a strong connection to the land itself.
Who is Ms. Joy Cottle?
At the heart of the Cottle Strawberry Farm, there is a person who helps guide its operations and keep the family tradition alive. That person is Ms. Joy Cottle, who has, in some respects, been a central figure in the farm's continued success. She has, you know, played a significant part in managing the day-to-day activities and ensuring that the farm continues to be a welcoming place for visitors and a reliable source of fresh produce. Her involvement highlights the ongoing family presence in the farm's daily life, which is pretty cool, actually.
The family has, in fact, been farming the land for about 50 years, and Ms. Joy Cottle is, you could say, a key part of that long history. Her guidance helps maintain the friendly, community-focused atmosphere that Cottle Farms is known for. She is, basically, one of the people who makes sure that when you visit, you feel like you are part of something special, a genuine farm experience. This personal touch, honestly, makes a big difference for everyone who comes by to pick berries or just enjoy the farm setting.
While specific personal details beyond her role in the farm's operation are not broadly shared, her dedication to the family business is, apparently, clear. She helps oversee the two main strawberry picking locations in South Carolina, ensuring that visitors have a wonderful time and that the farm continues its mission of providing quality berries. It's, you know, people like Ms. Joy Cottle who embody the spirit of family farming, keeping traditions alive while still looking to the future, which is pretty neat, if you ask me.
What Makes Cottle Farms Strawberries So Special?
When you think about Cottle Farms, it's hard not to immediately picture those luscious strawberries. They are, in a way, a cornerstone of what the farm does, and there's a good reason why so many people look forward to strawberry season there. The family has, in fact, put a lot of thought and effort into cultivating berries that stand out, not just in how they look, but in how they taste, too. It's more than just growing; it's about growing something truly memorable for everyone to enjoy, which is pretty important, really.
One of the things that makes Cottle Farms a standout is that they are, quite simply, one of the largest strawberry growers in eastern North Carolina. This means they have, you know, a deep understanding of what it takes to produce a lot of high-quality berries. Their expertise in this area is, basically, the result of years of practice and a genuine passion for the fruit. They focus on the details, from the soil to the sun, to make sure each berry reaches its full potential, which, you know, really shows in the final product.
They also specialize in growing multiple types of produce, but their focus on strawberries is, arguably, what brings many people to their fields. This specialization allows them to refine their growing methods, making sure that the strawberries they offer are consistently excellent. It's, you know, a commitment to a particular crop that helps them achieve such great results, and that's something you can truly appreciate when you bite into one of their fresh berries, too.
The Signature Cottle Farms Berry
When you pick a strawberry at Cottle Farms, or buy some that have already been gathered, you are, in a way, experiencing a berry that has been carefully nurtured. The characteristics of their strawberries are, in fact, quite specific, designed to offer a truly enjoyable eating experience. These berries are, typically, of a medium to large fruit size, which means they are, you know, satisfyingly substantial when you hold them in your hand. This size makes them great for snacking, for desserts, or for just about anything you might want to do with a fresh strawberry, which is pretty convenient, honestly.
Beyond their size, the firmness of these strawberries is, you could say, just right. They possess a medium firmness, which means they are not too soft to handle, nor are they overly hard. This particular quality helps them travel well and stay fresh for a good period after being picked. It also means they have a pleasant texture when you bite into them, offering a satisfying pop without being mushy, which is, you know, a really important aspect for a good berry, if you ask me.
And then there's the shape. Cottle Farms strawberries tend to have that classic strawberry shape, the one you probably picture in your mind when you think of the perfect berry. This familiar, appealing form is, in some respects, part of their charm. The plants themselves are, apparently, known to grow vigorously, meaning they are strong and healthy, producing an abundance of these lovely fruits. This robust growth contributes to the overall quality and quantity of the harvest, making sure there are plenty of berries for everyone to enjoy, which is, you know, a good thing for sure.
Picking Your Own Sweet Memories at Cottle Farms
One of the most cherished experiences at Cottle Farms is, without a doubt, the chance to pick your own strawberries straight from the field. Each spring, the Cottle strawberry farm opens its gates, welcoming individuals, families, and various groups to come and experience the joy of harvesting strawberries with their own hands. It's, you know, a truly hands-on activity that connects people directly to where their food comes from, which is pretty special, honestly.
This opportunity to pick your own berries is, in a way, more than just getting fruit; it's about creating lasting memories. The farm does not, in fact, mind if you sample a few while you are out in the fields, which is a lovely touch and, you know, part of the fun. Imagine biting into a warm, sun-ripened strawberry right there where it grew, the taste of pure freshness. This experience is, basically, what keeps people coming back year after year, eager to revisit the fields and enjoy that unique connection to the land, which is quite appealing, really.
The farm provides everything you need for a comfortable picking experience, making it accessible for everyone. It's a chance to slow down, enjoy the outdoors, and engage in a simple, satisfying activity. For many, it's a cherished family tradition, a yearly outing that marks the arrival of spring and the sweetness of the season. This kind of direct interaction with the farm is, you know, something that really sets Cottle Farms apart, offering more than just produce, but an experience, too.
Is Cottle Farms a Great Place for Families?
Based on what people say, Cottle Farms is, apparently, a truly wonderful spot for families to spend time together. One visitor shared that they came to Cottle Farms for their daughter's field trip and found it to be, you know, "so cute and fun." This kind of feedback really highlights the welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere the farm cultivates for its younger visitors and their parents, which is pretty important when planning a family outing, really.
Even when faced with less than ideal conditions, the farm still manages to deliver a good time. The same visitor mentioned that they came after it had rained the day before, so it was, in fact, "a bit muddy." However, despite the mud, the children still had, you know, "a blast." This suggests that the activities and the overall environment at Cottle Farms are engaging enough to overcome minor inconveniences, making for a memorable and fun experience regardless, which is quite a testament to the farm's appeal, honestly.
With 15 acres dedicated to family fun, there is, you know, ample space for everyone to spread out and enjoy the strawberry harvest. The farm opens its gates to the public each year for this special event, inviting everyone to participate in the joy of picking. And for those who might not have the time to pick their own, the farm also offers some already picked berries, ensuring that everyone can take home a taste of Cottle Farms' freshness. This flexibility makes it, you know, a convenient and appealing destination for all sorts of families, too.
Beyond the Strawberry Fields - Cottle Farms' Reach
While Cottle Farms is, you know, widely celebrated for its strawberries, the scope of their operations extends well beyond just these beloved berries. The original Cottle Farms Inc. has, in fact, been involved in growing, packing, shipping, importing, and distributing a wide range of quality fruits and vegetables for over half a century. This broad involvement in the produce supply chain shows their deep expertise in getting fresh food to people, which is pretty significant, really.
More recently, Cottle Strawberry Nursery, Inc. has, in a way, broadened its horizons considerably. This part of the family business has expanded its activities to include growing and shipping produce from other regions within the United States. This means they are, basically, able to offer a wider variety of fresh items throughout more of the year, by sourcing from different climates and growing seasons. It's, you know, a smart way to ensure a consistent supply of good food, which is something consumers really appreciate, honestly.
Furthermore, the nursery has, apparently, also developed an international program, specifically involving blueberries. While the text does not specify the exact international source for these blueberries, the fact that they are engaging in global trade speaks volumes about their commitment to bringing diverse and fresh produce to their customers. This expansion into international sourcing demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to their business, ensuring they can provide fresh fruit even when it's not in season locally, which is pretty impressive, really.
How Does Cottle Farms Ensure Quality and Safety?
A core commitment at Cottle Farms is, without a doubt, providing the safest and highest quality produce to its consumers. This isn't just a claim; it's, you know, something they actively work on and prove through their practices. They understand that when people buy fruits and vegetables, they want to be confident that what they are eating is both good for them and handled with the utmost care, which is, you know, a very important consideration for any food producer, honestly.
To back up this commitment, Cottle Farms' operations, including both their farms and their facilities where produce is handled, are, in fact, routinely audited. These audits are, basically, independent checks to make sure that everything they do meets certain standards. The purpose of these regular assessments is to ensure that they not only comply with but actually exceed national standards for food safety and quality. This means they are, you know, going above and beyond what is simply required, which provides an extra layer of assurance for their customers, too.
This dedication to rigorous auditing and adherence to high standards means that consumers can, in a way, trust the produce they get from Cottle Farms. Knowing that a farm is regularly checked and strives to surpass industry benchmarks for safety gives a lot of peace of mind. It's, you know, a clear indication that the Cottle family takes their responsibility to public health very seriously, making sure that every piece of fruit or vegetable that leaves their farm is something they can be proud of, which is pretty reassuring, really.
Where Can You Find Cottle Farms' Freshness?
The presence of Cottle Farms is, you know, felt in a few key locations, making their fresh produce accessible to various communities. The family's main operations are, in fact, nestled in the heart of eastern North Carolina, which is where their long history of growing fruits and vegetables began. This region serves as the primary hub for their extensive growing, packing, shipping, importing, and distributing activities, which is pretty central to their whole operation, really.
Beyond their North Carolina base, Cottle Strawberry Farm also extends its reach into South Carolina, providing even more opportunities for people to experience their berries. This part of the business operates as a small, local family farm with two distinct locations within the state. These two spots are, in fact, found in Hopkins and Florence, giving residents in those areas direct access to the farm's offerings. It's, you know, a nice way to serve neighboring communities, too.
For those living near Columbia, South Carolina, getting to the Cottle Strawberry Farm locations is, apparently, quite convenient. They are described as just a short country drive away, which suggests an easy and pleasant trip out to the farm. This accessibility means that a day trip to pick fresh strawberries or simply to buy some already gathered berries is, you know, a simple outing for many families in the area, which is pretty appealing, honestly.
Are There Cottle Farms Locations Near You?
If you are looking to connect with Cottle Farms directly, knowing their specific addresses and how to get in touch can be very helpful. The Cottle Strawberry Farm in Florence, South Carolina, can be found at 3712 West Palmetto Street. This location is, you know, a key spot for their South Carolina operations and a place where many come to enjoy the strawberry harvest. It's good to have a clear address when you are planning a visit, which is pretty practical, really.
Another important contact point for the farm is their phone number, 843.317.0031, which is associated with the Palmetto Street Florence location. This number is, in fact, a direct line to get information about hours, availability, and anything else you might need to know before heading out to the farm. Having this direct contact is, you know, super useful for planning your visit and making sure you have all the details, too.
The farm also makes an effort to keep people updated on their current status. For instance, sometimes they announce that they are closed for the season, telling folks to "Enjoy your berries and we’ll see you this fall." This kind of communication helps manage expectations and lets people know when to look forward to the next opening. They even have a "Live farm feed" associated with Cottle Farms, Inc. & Cottle Strawberry Nursery, Inc., which, you know, gives a glimpse into the ongoing activities at the farm, which is pretty cool, honestly.
A Commitment to Community and Learning
Beyond simply growing and selling produce, Cottle Farms shows a genuine commitment to its community, particularly through educational initiatives. The Cottle Strawberry Farm, in fact, opens each spring for individuals, families, and various groups, creating a welcoming environment for everyone to experience the fields. This open-door policy fosters a connection between the farm and the people it serves, which is, you know, a really positive aspect of their operation, too.
A significant part of this community involvement comes through their educational school field trips. The farm believes that "learning is fun on a farm," and they put this belief into practice by offering engaging and educational field trips. These trips are, in fact, available during both the spring and fall seasons, providing opportunities for students to learn about agriculture and where their food comes from in a hands-on setting. It's, you know, a valuable experience for young learners, connecting classroom knowledge with real-world farming, which is pretty neat, honestly.
These field trips are designed to be interactive and informative, allowing children to see firsthand how fruits grow, understand the work involved, and perhaps even pick a few berries themselves. It's a chance for them to step outside the classroom and experience the natural world of a working farm. This commitment to education shows that Cottle Farms is, basically, invested not just in growing food, but also in cultivating knowledge and a love for farming in the next generation, which is, you know, something truly commendable, if you ask me.
Cottle Farms Educational Experiences
The educational field trips at Cottle Farms are, you know, structured to provide a comprehensive learning experience for school groups. By offering these trips in both spring and fall, the farm can, in fact, showcase different aspects of the agricultural cycle and provide varied learning opportunities. In the spring, students can see the strawberries in full bloom and perhaps participate in picking, while the fall might offer insights into other crops
Related Resources:


Detail Author:
- Name : Khalil Stiedemann
- Username : shawna.brakus
- Email : qkertzmann@hotmail.com
- Birthdate : 1974-04-06
- Address : 549 Kshlerin Streets Suite 524 Danport, TX 96121
- Phone : +15304808822
- Company : Kertzmann, Cassin and Mante
- Job : Scientific Photographer
- Bio : Similique consectetur iusto consectetur tempora eos sit est. Id qui facere minima et sequi aut iusto totam. Cupiditate quos non voluptas assumenda.
Socials
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/keira8217
- username : keira8217
- bio : Ipsa quisquam dolore id aliquam est assumenda.
- followers : 2275
- following : 409
instagram:
- url : https://instagram.com/runolfsdottir2018
- username : runolfsdottir2018
- bio : Consequatur voluptas nihil animi totam. Eius est iusto eaque voluptas.
- followers : 1699
- following : 2796
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@runolfsdottir1980
- username : runolfsdottir1980
- bio : Dicta quibusdam sunt hic sed.
- followers : 5331
- following : 828
twitter:
- url : https://twitter.com/keira2019
- username : keira2019
- bio : Distinctio ut enim quia numquam. Consectetur placeat officiis tempora sequi a unde itaque. Et et numquam vero.
- followers : 3969
- following : 601
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/keira_runolfsdottir
- username : keira_runolfsdottir
- bio : Repellendus quos iure velit non.
- followers : 2257
- following : 2503