Annual ‘Fruit Pick’ to Begin Today

Orcutt Ranch will host its annual Fruit Pick today and Sunday, offering the public an opportunity to harvest ripe Valencia oranges and white grapefruit from the park’s orchards.

The event, sponsored by the Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Department, has been held the weekend after the Fourth of July for more than a decade and draws 200 to 400 people, said Brad Haynes, park supervisor-foreman of the West Valley district.

Harvesting hours are 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. each day.

The beauty of the ranch grounds and the great taste of the fruit is what attracts people, Haynes said.

“A lot of people come out because it’s all naturally grown--there’s no herbicides and no pesticides,” he said. “Since the trees have been there at least 50 to 60 years, they’re about the sweetest oranges and grapefruits you can get.

“We get people that come back every year and one of their main comments is the sweetness of the juice.”

Those who come to pick fruit should bring their own bags and boxes to fill. The fruit costs $2 per grocery bag, $5 per medium fruit box. Guests may not climb the trees but are encouraged to bring their own A-frame ladders or fruit pickers. The do-it-yourself harvesters may also rent a fruit picker for $1.

Proceeds will go toward upkeep of the grounds, which include fruit orchards, flowers and shrubbery, rose and botanical gardens, plus a 700-year-old oak tree.

Orcutt Ranch, originally encompassing 100 acres, was once privately owned and operated by William and Mary Orcutt, who purchased it in 1917. In 1920 the couple hired an Arizona architect to build a 3,060-square-foot Spanish-style home.

In 1966 the estate and remaining 24 acres of the gardens were purchased by the Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Department and designated a historic monument. Tours of the house may be arranged for the last Sunday of each month. The home has hardwood oak floors, 16-inch-thick adobe walls and its original tile and fixtures.

Guests may tour the grounds of Orcutt Ranch, 23600 Roscoe Blvd., any day of the week free of charge. The ranch includes a park with a walking trail and gazebo area, Haynes said.

For information, call (818) 883- 6641.