How to Pick Blueberries Fresh From the Bush

Sweet, juicy blueberries are a summertime staple. They grow on bushes and ripen from early summer to early fall depending on the region. Picking blueberries is much easier than their thorny counterparts, raspberries and blackberries.

If you’re growing your own blueberry bushes in the backyard this summer (or planning to visit a local blueberry farm), learning the best way to choose and harvest your berries is essential.

First, gently run your hand under the berries. Ripe berries will fall right off the bush and you can catch them in a basket below. If you have to tug at them – or if they’re still white or pinkish in color – the blueberries aren’t ready for harvest.

Keep in mind that blueberries don’t ripen after they’re picked like some fruits, so make sure you only pick the ripe, plump blueberries. Eat them, bake with them, freeze them or make you harvest last even longer by preparing preserves with them quickly after picking.

Recipes With Blueberries

Looking for something to make with all those fresh blueberries you’ve picked? Check out some of our favorite blueberry recipes!