Are Blueberry Picking Machines Ruining Blueberry Trees?

There is a common myth that blueberry picking machines are damaging the blueberry trees. Many people worry that the mechanical harvesters might be harmful to the bushes, but is this truly the case?

The Impact of Pruning on Blueberry Trees

Blueberry bushes do need annual pruning to maintain their health and promote new growth. This is a essential cultivation practice that helps to keep the plants vigorous and productive. During the winter, when the harvesting season is over, the pruning process removes damaged or non-productive branches, which prepares the bushes for the next growing season. The mechanical harvesters, in fact, help to facilitate this process by causing minimal damage as they gather the ripe berries.

The Primary Challenge with Mechanical Harvesters: Bruised Fruit

The biggest drawback of using mechanical harvesters is the incidence of bruised fruit. As the berries fall and are caught by the paddles, they can bump into one another or hit the hard surfaces, leading to bruising. This bruising can significantly reduce the fruit's shelf life, which is particularly problematic for those looking to sell their produce at high market prices.

Efforts to Reduce Bruising

Harvesting equipment manufacturers are constantly working on developing more effective and durable materials to minimize bruising. They are seeking the ideal balance between softness to avoid bruising and durability to maintain the equipment's lifespan. Additionally, innovations in cleaning processes are improving to make sure that the machines can be easily maintained and sanitized. Although progress is being made, for those seeking pristine, fresh market quality berries, hand picking is still the superior choice, provided there is adequate labor availability.

Conclusion

While mechanical harvesters do pose a risk of bruising blueberries, this concern is outweighed by the numerous benefits they offer. These machines can significantly reduce labor costs and improve efficiency, helping blueberry farmers to meet the growing demand for fresh produce. However, it is important for farmers and harvesters to continue to address the issue of bruising and to find solutions that optimize the benefits while minimizing any potential harm to the fruit and the trees.