Frequently Asked Questions
When are you open to the public?
We are open to the public select days for blueberry picking in the summer season. We also host special announced events. Check out our Facebook and Instagram for updates!
What are your hours?
We announce the seasonal schedule in June of each year as Mother Nature dictates our season and opening dates. U-pick blueberry hours of operation are currently set for Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays from 9am-3pm for three to five weeks of June/July, with weekly berr-o-meter and weather updates throughout the season. Inquire for group outings private picking events at info@willowthorne.com. Please note fees apply for private visitation dates.
If it's before or after July, can I buy honey?
Yes, as long as its available! Please email info@willowthorne.com or call 312.767.8226.
Can I stop by outside of open hours to pick up some honey or pick blueberries?
Not without an appointment. Please arrange to come during upick summer business hours. If it's before or after, email info@willowthorne.com or call 312.767.8226.
Is there an entrance fee to pick blueberries when you are open?
Picking buckets are available for $2 each, or you are welcome to bring your own.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes! Pups on leashes who are people AND dog-friendly are welcome! Please bring your own water dish.
Do you spray the blueberries?
We are an organic farm using sustainable agricultural practices. We do not use any pesticides or herbicides. We do not allow broadcast pesticides, ie. Raid yard guard or other similar products on our property. You can spray your own skin, clothing and personal property with mosquito repellent in the driveway before you enter. We are an organic farm with bees and native pollinating insects. Thank you for your commitment to conserving the natural ecosystem.
May I come fish your pond when you are open to the public?
If you are a paying customer, you are welcome to do some catch-and-release fishing during our open business hours. Be sure to check your group in with a staff member before you begin. Please be respectful of our property and animals.
May I come fish your pond when you are not open to the public?
No. Please make arrangements to visit during open upick hours in July.
May I rent the property for a private event?
Absolutely! You can rent an area of the farm to customize your event with event fees in place. We can make the space available for family gatherings, company outings, yoga classes, wellness retreats to more formal events such as showers, weddings and rehearsal dinners. We are also happy to work with you to create an unforgettable experience for your group. We are long-time hospitality professionals with four decades of experience between us. We could create a casual to gorgeous table sets for an elegant al fresco dinner overlooking the gardens and pond.
Is camping available?
We offer two campsites through Hipcamp. Please direct any inquiries and bookings directly through their website here: ://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/land/illinois-willowthorne-9mxhzwdw
Are your chicken/duck eggs organic?
We feed our fowl organic food when possible. We don't use any pesticides or herbicides or fertilizers other than manure - our farm fowl do most of the fertilizing and eat most of the bugs and weeds! While we don't have the organic certification, we practice sustainable farming.
Is your honey unpasteurized, raw & organic?
The honey is harvested raw, unfiltered and not subject to pasteurizing heat. We aren't certified organic because we feel the certification doesn't go far enough but our property is never sprayed with pesticides or herbicides. Do not ever feed honey to infants under the age of one.
For more answers, please email questions to: info@willowthorne.com