It’s Raspberry Time – and time to pick-your-own

In the 1940s, the Salman family (yes, related to David, President of Santa Fe Greenhouses) bought a large historic ranch in Northern New Mexico...

  • Topic: Fall Gardening
  • Keywords: Raspberry, raspberry picking, Annuals, berries, raspberries
  • Date: August 2005

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In the 1940s, the Salman family (yes, related to David, President of Santa Fe Greenhouses) bought a large historic ranch in Northern New Mexico. Some of the plants sold at Santa Fe Greenhouses are grown there; however, one of their biggest crops is raspberries, and this fall marks the 14th year the fields have been open to the public for picking-your-own. Last year 22 tons of Soil Mender Compost was added to the soil, making a rich and happy environment for the berries. The ranch also sells vegetables and cut sunflowers.

Part of the Mora Land Grand of 1835, the ranch is now a registered National Historic Site and includes the main house of 1863, the large adobe flour mill from 1850 and the recently restored 1860 San Rafael Mission Church.

The Salman Ranch Store was once the local mercantile that also housed a post office. Today the store sells tasty raspberry gourmet items, aprons, t-shirts and hats. Also, you can buy fresh berries already picked. Store hours are everyday from 9am to 5pm.

The Ranch Cafe is open everyday except Monday from 11am to 4pm and sells sandwiches, hot dogs, salads, tamales, chili and soft serve ice cream lathered with raspberry sauce. After lunch, stroll the newly designed garden.

A late spring frost delayed the fruit this year, but the berries are expected to be ‘pickable’ this weekend. You-Pick-It should last until mid-October. Always, though, it’s advised to call ahead for field conditions. The number is 1-866-281-1515 or 505-387-2900.

Berries cost $4 a pound. Bring your own container or buy baskets in the field. Wear long sleeves, bring bug spray and a hat.

Located in Mora, which is a Spanish word for “berry,” the ranch is easy to find. For directions see http://www.salmanraspberryranch.com/.

If you can’t get to the ranch, come by our Garden Center in Santa Fe. We carry Salman Ranch raspberry jam, topping and vinegar.