The story behind our Highbush Blueberries. Blueberry season is one of the sweetest times of the year on our farm—and not just because of the fruit. It’s a season that brings families into the fields, connects people to the land, and teaches how food is grown, one berry at a time.
A Native Treasure
Did you know that blueberries are native to New Jersey? The cultivated highbush blueberry, the kind we grow here on our farm, has its roots in the Pinelands of southern New Jersey. It was in the early 1900s that Elizabeth White, a cranberry grower, partnered with botanist Frederick Coville to domesticate the wild blueberry—and the rest is agricultural history. Today, New Jersey proudly ranks among the top blueberry-producing states in the country.
Why We Grow Blueberries
We dedicate nearly 7 acres of our farm to growing blueberries, not only because they thrive in our region, but because they provide an incredible opportunity for families to experience the joy of picking their own fruit right from the bush. It’s a hands-on way to learn about farming, the growing season, and the importance of harvesting food at just the right moment.
Our blueberries grow on a hilly part of our farm that might not be ideal for many crops, but it’s perfect for these hearty highbush varieties. These bushes prefer acidic, sandy soil and good drainage—which the hills help provide. We also amend our soil with compost throughout the year to support healthy growth and flavorful fruit.
Growing with Care: Trickle Irrigation
You may notice the thin tubing winding through our blueberry fields—that’s part of our trickle irrigation system. This method delivers water directly to the base of each plant, reducing waste and preventing disease by keeping the foliage dry. It’s just one example of how we incorporate regenerative farming practices to care for our land, conserve resources, and grow healthy crops for generations to come.
When to Pick
Not all blueberries are ready at once, and picking the ripest ones makes all the difference in taste. A ripe blueberry will be fully blue, with no hint of red or green. It should come off the bush easily with a gentle touch. If you have to tug, it’s not quite ready. Place your container under the cluster and softly roll the ripe berries off with your fingertips—they’ll fall right in. Shopping in our market? We do the work for you. Everything is always freshly picked at the peak of ripeness.
From Field to Kitchen
Blueberries are as versatile as they are delicious. Whether you’re eating them fresh by the handful, baking them into muffins or pies, swirling them into yogurt, or turning them into jam, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy your harvest. You can even freeze extras to use in smoothies or baked goods all year long. Find plenty of inspiration on our website, provided by our Culinary & Educational Specialists.
Why We Diversify
As farmers, we believe in growing a diverse range of crops, not just for flavor and seasonality, but also for sustainability. Crop diversity enhances soil health, naturally reduces pest pressure, and disperses the risk of weather or disease affecting a single crop. It’s an essential part of our regenerative farming plan, and it allows us to offer something fresh and exciting in every season.
Come Pick with Us—or Take Some Home!
Blueberry season runs from late June through August, and our fields are open for pick-your-own during that time. We invite you to join us, slow down, and savor the experience of harvesting food by hand. Can’t make it to the fields? You can still enjoy our blueberries—freshly picked daily—at our farm store, our satellite location, or at a farmers market near you.
