Farmers around southwest Michigan are wrapping up strawberry season and ramping up for a berry nice blueberry season! We are so lucky to have an abundance of the freshest selection of fruit right in our backyard. According to local farmers, blueberries will hit their peak ripeness in mid-July and continue into early August. Picking blueberries is one of the best summer activities for the family – but don’t forget these important tips before you head out:

1. Bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water. With little shade covering the fields, you’ll heat up pretty quickly!
2. Pack your own containers and reusable bags. Most farms provide them, but you may need something in which to bring your goods home.
3. Call ahead or check the farm’s Facebook page for important updates before you go. Some farms close early when they sell out for the day and some have adapted hours due to the pandemic.
4. Don’t forget your mask! Most farms will require masks in their public facilities. Be sure to also follow all guidelines set forth including social distancing and proper hand sanitation.
5. Have fun! Enjoy the beauty of southwest Michigan and find some exciting recipes to create with your fresh fruit haul.

To make sure you don’t miss the goodness straight off the bush, we’ve picked out the best U-pick farms in the region here:

1. Corey Lake Orchards in Three Rivers not only has U-pick blueberries, but also offers fresh slushies; hard cider, wine, and brandy; and a marketplace with fresh baked goods, other produce, and local crafted goods. It’s jam-packed with goodness!
2. In Paw Paw, Leduc Blueberries has over 400 acres of both blueberries and strawberries! If you thought that was a whole bushel, they also have a retail store with a variety of delicious products.
3. Schultz Fruitridge Farms of Mattawan is offering online ordering and curbside pickup in addition to regular services. Go pick the best at the Schultz family farm!
4. Hartford’s very own Adams Blueberry Farms grows both conventional and organic blueberries and also has fresh maple syrup made on-site. It sounds like the perfect recipe for blueberry pancakes!
5. Harvey’s Farm in Tekonsha blue us away with their selection of fine produce and customer service. You will sure have a berry nice time at Harvey’s!
6. Farming is a way of life and a family affair at Brookside Farms in Paw Paw. Make your own family memories at Brookside picking blueberries and trying their blueberry coffee cake recipe.
7. Bumbleberry Acres, located in South Haven, promises family fun with farm animals, wagon rides, picnics, and more. U-pick what you want to do first!
8. At DeGrandchamp’s Blueberry Farm in South Haven, you’ll find both blueberries and cranberries, a market store, and a nursery where you can buy your own blueberry bush! Check out some of their favorite blueberry recipes too.
9. Pleasant Hill Farm in Fennville is offering U-Pick appointments to accommodate guests during the pandemic. Owners John and Joan Donaldson have also planted a four-acre field of gorgeous poppies in honor of their late son Mateo. It is breathtaking!
10. In Scotts, Sterling Acres Blueberry Farm not only has berries, but offers horseback riding lessons for a new way to take in the beautiful landscape.