Celebrating National Pick Blueberries Day: How and Where to Enjoy This Seasonal Delicacy

Today is National Pick Blueberries Day, a perfect opportunity to celebrate the sweet, juicy berries beloved by many. Whether you’re picking them from your garden or enjoying them from a nearby farm, blueberries offer a delightful and healthy treat. But where can you find these fresh, delicious berries, and how should you go about picking them?

Blueberries for Gardeners in Unfavorable Climates

Unluckily, residents in some regions may not have the best conditions for growing blueberries. Hawaii, for example, struggles with invasive blueberry species, making them unsuitable for cultivation. Nevertheless, blueberry farms exist in some areas, providing alternative options for those eager to enjoy these berries firsthand.

Problems with Blueberry Production

For many gardeners, blueberry plants can be finicky. Unfortunately, my blueberry plants have ceased producing after just a few weeks. Instead of growing my own, I turned to a local farmers' market for some delicious berries. A quart of fresh, organic blueberries made for a wonderful addition to my diet.

Different Types of Blueberries

Blueberries can be classified into different varieties, each with its unique characteristics. Some are round, dark blue, with a slight white powdery coating, while others are flatter and slightly rounder. These differences can influence the picking technique and the texture of the berries.

Embracing Blueberry Alternatives

With a shortage of blueberry production in certain areas, some gardeners and enthusiasts turn to alternatives. Haskap, also known as Honeyberry, is a reliable producer in many regions. This berry is sweeter than a blueberry and is becoming increasingly popular. Another option is the serviceberry, often referred to as a "blueberry on a tree," but its small yields and avian pest problems make it unsuitable for harvesting in many areas.

Experiencing National Blueberry Day

On National Pick Blueberries Day, people from all over celebrate by picking berries. If you don’t have local blueberries, you can still participate by picking other suitable berries like raspberries, blackcap raspberries, goji berries, and black currants. These can be found in many regions and are perfect for those without access to blueberries.

For those who enjoy the outdoors, another option is to visit a nearby blueberry farm. There, you can get a small pail and head out to a sandy jack pine area, similar to where I live in Zone 4 Ontario. When your pail is full, bring your haul to an empty large container and continue picking until you’ve gathered enough berries to enjoy.

Important Safety Tips

While picking berries, it’s important to be aware of potential dangers. One of the concerns is the presence of poisonous snakes, such as copperheads. If you are picking berries in wooded areas, watch your steps and be cautious when stepping over logs or reaching into dense plants. Ground nesting wasps can also be a risk, so it’s best to avoid dropping to the ground or disturbing plants heavily.

While blueberries might not be available in your garden, there are always ways to celebrate National Pick Blueberries Day. Consider visiting a local farm, picking other berries, or even trying some of the many alternative berry varieties. Whether you’re a seasoned picker or a blueberry enthusiast just beginning, there’s always a way to enjoy these delicious berries.