Extension for Real Life Blog

Tips for Harvesting Blueberries

Photo/video by Jonathan Parrish

Blueberries are a nutrient- and antioxidant-rich food. Harvesting them at the peak of ripeness ensures you get the greatest health benefits and the best taste.

A uniform blue color means the berry is ready to be picked. Especially look toward the stem end where it may still be green, white, or rose colored even though the rest of the berry looks blue.

Blueberries average around 13% sugar content and also have different acids, including citric acid, that can make the berry seem sour if not ripe.

Once harvested, blueberries can be eaten immediately, refrigerated for a short time, or frozen for longer. Always wash the fruit before you eat it.  If you are storing the berries for use later, wait until just before you want to use them to wash them. Washing berries before refrigerating or freezing will make them break down and leak.

For more information about growing blueberries, check out our Extension publication 1758, “Establishment and Maintenance of Blueberries” and Extension information sheet 1448, “Fruit and Nut Review – Blueberries.”

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