
Fresh berries might not have a long shelf life once they’re picked, but the great news is that you can enjoy a harvest straight from the bush for weeks on end! Most berries don’t ripen all at once; instead, they take their time, giving you a steady supply of treats. Here’s the lowdown on when to get your harvest baskets ready.
Common Berries for Your Backyard
When it comes to choosing berries for your garden, there’s truly something for everyone. Whether you’re into tart flavors, sugary sweetness, or something a bit more earthy, you’ve got options. Here are the fan favorites:
- Currants
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- Gooseberries
- Elderberries
- Strawberries
Most of these delicious fruits ripen gradually throughout the summer months, typically from June through September. The one outlier is the gooseberry—unlike its cousins, most of its fruit tends to be ready for harvest all at the same time.


