Blackberries are a sweet treat whether eaten fresh, in smoothies, fruit salads, yogurts, jams, or in desserts. The berries are rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, manganese, and antioxidants such as anthocyanins. But when can you pick them?
Blackberries mature from late June to late September but are in season from July to August. Based on climate and other factors, some areas have an earlier season than others. Dried or frozen blackberries, or even blackberry powder, are a great way to enjoy this fruit in the off season.
If you want a healthy, delicious fruit for your summer treats, blackberries in season are perfect. Blackberries grow and ripen from late spring to early fall, but the peak is between July and August. Let’s find out more about when blackberries are in season and how to pick and store the berries.
When Are Blackberries in Season?
Blackberries are in season over a short period of weeks, from July to August. The unique conditions in growing regions, such as the weather, mean harvesting times might vary.
The fruits ripen towards the end of June, and harvesting continues until late September. Therefore, July and August are the best months for blackberries.
Top growing areas include the U.S. Pacific Northwest and Serbia. Oregon leads blackberry production in the country. California, North Carolina, Texas, Arkansas, and Georgia are other growing regions.
Harvesting starts early within the Southern states in spring or early summer. This means blackberries are in season early from late June and early July in markets around here.
In the Pacific Northwest, harvesting starts in late Summer or early fall. For the rest of the country, blackberries are in season in the warm summer months of July and August.
And if you can’t find your fix for fresh blackberries, maybe you’re out of season, have a look at the alternatives. Blackberry powder (example on Amazon) or even just dried blackberries (also on Amazon) can be a great addition to smoothies, a bowl of cereal, or just as a snack. Frozen blackberries (example on Amazon) are also great to have on hand, for smoothies or as an ingredient if you want to whip up a quick compote!
Uses of Blackberries
Blackberries are a popular summer fruit that household owners turn into treats such as fruit salads, desserts, and also as part of a fresh breakfast. You can also use blackberries in jam, juice, cakes, yogurts, syrups, cocktails, or even in cereals.
The dark purple berries are good for bone, heart, and dental health. The fruits also boost your immunity, improve brain function, and help regulate blood sugar levels. So always look for the blackberry season, whether you want to eat your berries fresh or use them in summer recipes.
How to Pick Blackberries
Looking for a delicious summer treat that’s full of nutrients? You can’t go wrong with blackberries. Blackberries are chock full of nutrients, antioxidants, and fibers, making them one of the healthiest fruits.
When choosing blackberries in season, always get the ripe ones because they don’t ripen further after harvest. Also, you can only use the fruits in the condition you buy them. Here’s what to consider when picking blackberries:
- Check the color: To choose ripe blackberries, look for a deep purple-black color. Avoid shiny berries and instead buy the ones with a deep, dull, purple appearance.
- Carry out a visual inspection: Pick blackberries with a plump, full look and without dampness or mold on the surface/ between the fruits.
- Pluck a berry: Ripe berries pull off easily from the branch with a slight tug.
- Feel the berries: Pick the berries with a slightly tender feel.
How to Store Blackberries
Blackberries are in season for a short time, and you might have to store the ones you buy for use later. So here are some ideas to keep your blackberries safely:
- First, check the blackberry bunch and remove any spoilt, moldy, or dried berries.
- Seal the berries in the container they came in or use a food protection container.
- Store your blackberries in the refrigerator and use them within 3 to 6 days.
- Freeze your blackberries by placing them on a baking sheet and in the freezer for more extended storage.
- Once frozen, transfer the berries into an airtight zipper bag or container and put them in the freezer.
But don’t wash blackberries before storing them. Instead, only wash the berries when you want to eat or use them.
Are Blackberries Healthier Than Blueberries?
Blueberries and blackberries are popular summer fruits, and choosing between these berries can be tricky. However, the small delicious fruits pack lots of health benefits. Here’s a breakdown to help you make an informed choice.
Blackberries
Blackberries boast lots of health benefits because of the wide range of nutrients they offer. The fruits contain vitamins A, C, and K, antioxidants, manganese, and high fiber content.
The low-calorie content in blackberries makes them a healthy snack, aiding in digestion, fighting cancer, and lowering cholesterol.
In addition, the dark purple berries have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, which improve immunity and help fight cold.
Blueberries
Blueberries are the most nutritional berry and offer a broader range of health benefits. The berries boast one of the highest antioxidant levels among fruits and are low in calories while packing multiple nutrients.
The popular berries prevent heart disease, alleviate depression and Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, aid digestion/eye health, and boost memory function.
The berries also protect against aging and cancer and lower blood pressure/cholesterol. They also help with gastrointestinal issues and regulate blood sugar.
So while both berry varieties offer multiple health benefits, blueberries are the healthier of the two.