Blueberries are the ultimate summer treat! Whether you’re snacking on them fresh off the bush or whipping up a batch of homemade jam, nothing beats that homegrown flavor. If you’re wondering exactly when to head out and start picking, you’ve come to the right place.
Harvesting Fresh Blueberries
If you’re out for a long hike in the woods, you might get lucky and stumble upon some wild blueberries. These little gems are deep blue and grow on low-to-the-ground shrubs that usually top out around 15 inches. Now, wild blueberries aren’t poisonous—in fact, they’re incredibly delicious—but you should only pick and eat them if you are 100% sure you’ve identified the right plant.
A quick pro-tip: resist the urge to snack while you’re still on the trail! You’ll want to give them a thorough wash at home first to make sure they’re clean and safe from any forest critters. Blueberry season for wild varieties usually kicks off in July, depending on your local weather and elevation. Unlike the cultivated varieties in your backyard, the wild harvest window is a bit shorter, wrapping up by late summer rather than stretching into the fall.
Before you head out, here’s a quick checklist of what to bring:
- Several shallow bowls (so the berries on the bottom don’t get crushed!),
- A damp cloth to wipe your hands, and
- A small cushion or gardening pad for your knees.
