From pancakes to muffins and crisp to cobbler, blueberries are a delicious and nutritious berry that can be cooked, canned or enjoyed raw! The seasonal U-Pick blueberry fields in Lakeland, FL at Oponay Farms are full of plump southern high bush blueberries perfect for any use. Blueberries have unique culinary versatility and are packed with healthy anti-oxidants. They are the second most popular berry in the United States behind the strawberry. Some people enjoy blueberries with their oatmeal or yogurt in the morning, others grab a handful for an afternoon snack while the most ambitious use them to make delicious jam. However, you use blueberries, they always taste better when you pick them yourself. Something about selecting the perfect berry right from the bush makes the whole experience a delight.
Before you go out picking blueberries, there are some important things to keep in mind. You don’t want to spend too much time in the hot sun and end up coming home with mushy or sour tasting berries.
To get the sweetest and most juicy blueberries on the farm, here are some helpful tips. First, look for a good bush. In many cases, the best bushes are located in the back. This is because the front bushes have already been picked. Try to select blueberries in Lakeland, FL that have maintained a round shape and have maintained their blue color without cracked skin. When you’ve found a good berry, simply roll it off the stem and place it in your container. Once you’ve found a good bush, just keep picking the berries. Before you begin eating your blueberries, make sure they are properly washed.
Southern High Bush blueberries grow extremely well in Florida as long as the conditions are right. They grow best in highly acid soil with plenty of water and sunlight. Oponay Farms sells individual potted blueberry bushes and can offer the best tips for success. A blueberry bush or two in your garden is a unique addition and your family will love it! Call Oponay Farms today for more information about U-Pick blueberry hours of operation.