The Craighead family started planting fruit on their part-time, 22-acre farm near Fulton in 2012, but opened the farm for members of the public to pick their own blueberries and blackberries, their primary crops, in 2015.
"We wanted to do something little bit different instead of traditional row crop farming and wanted to make a place for families to pick and learn," Amy Craighead said.
The work is a family effort, involving Amy as well as husband, Gabe; son, Isaiah, 10; and daughter, Alexandra, 7.
The Craigheads also share information about their farm, including recipes, updates on planting and so forth, online at danamayfarm.wordpress.com.
Q. In general, what is involved in cultivating berries?
A. "There is a lot of weeding, pruning and tying the new canes for the blackberries. It's also important to monitor soil pH, fertilizer and moisture levels. There is a lot that goes into growing blueberries in Missouri."
Q. How much do you produce on average?
A. "It's hard to tell since our farm is still young and our plants have not matured. We have 1 acre of blueberries and 1 acre of blackberries in production."
Q. What is the season like for growing berries locally?
A. "It depends on the season, but traditionally blueberries are ready mid- to late June and finish by mid- to late July. Blackberries are ready late June and finish by late July."
Q. How do you sell them, and who do you primarily sell to?
A. "We sell them by the pound, 'U-pick,' here at Danamay Farm and pre-picked by the quart or pint at local farmers markets. We also sell to a few local restaurants."
Q. How is using the berries fresh or straight from the farm different than using them store bought?
A. "When store-bought, the produce generally comes from long distances and has been harvested days or weeks in advance. When you use local berries, they are much fresher. You also have the opportunity to see where your food comes from."
Q. What is your favorite way to use the berries you grow?
A. "Our favorite way of using the berries is eating them fresh. I like to make cobblers, too."