Be Berry Happy
Be Berry Happy
Blueberries are perennial flowering plants with blue or purple berries. They are closely related to cranberries, bilberries and huckleberries. Blueberries are native to North America and are one of the only foods that are truly blue in color all from mother nature alone. It is said that the Native North American indigenous people called blueberries… Read More »
Blueberries are perennial flowering plants with blue or purple berries. They are closely related to cranberries, bilberries and huckleberries. Blueberries are native to North America and are one of the only foods that are truly blue in color all from mother nature alone.
It is said that the Native North American indigenous people called blueberries “star fruits” for the five point star shape that appears at the blossom end of the berry.
Blueberries are in season on our farm in late June through July and sometimes even early August if weather conditions cooperate. Blueberry bushes prefer acidic, well drained soil so we work deliberately to add ample composted material to ensure ideal growing conditions and a healthy crop. When you visit our farm you will notice our blueberry bushes growing in raised beds which promotes drainage and aeration and you will also notice our use of trickle irrigation, all part of our sustainable farming practices to grow the healthiest produce.
Blueberries grow on the bush in clusters like grapes, be sure to pick only the dark blue, ripe berries for optimum taste and nutrition. The almost silver sheen on the blueberry skin is called the bloom and is naturally occurring to protect the fruit. That is the reason why you should only wash blueberries right before you plan to consume them. Berries store well in the refrigerator for approximately up to 10 days. Blueberries are easy to keep on hand for longer periods of time by freezing, preserving or canning for future use.
Blueberries are considered by some health experts as a superfood as they are packed with antioxidants and phytoflavinoids, are high in potassium and vitamin C and may provide many health benefits. Blueberries are typically eaten raw however, can be frozen and used in smoothies. We use blueberries for a variety of delicious items on our farm including blueberry pancakes for our breakfasts, blueberry muffins, blueberry cakes and crumbles, blueberry ice cream and so much more. Try one of our fresh baked blueberry pies, or one of our many sauces featuring blueberries such as Salsa, BBQ Sauce, and preserves. 
Our culinary and educational specialist, Miss Jenn, has prepared this delicious blueberry hand pie recipe for you to eat in season with us.
