Georgia is a major player in the domestic fruit market and a significant producer of blueberries. The state often ranks highly in national production, sometimes leading the country in harvested acreage or total yield. The seasonal harvest is a prominent event for both commercial operations and local consumers. Understanding the Georgia blueberry calendar is key to enjoying the freshest fruit.
Understanding Georgia’s Blueberry Calendar
The overall harvest window for Georgia blueberries begins in the early spring and extends into the summer. Commercial harvesting, especially in the warmer southern part of the state, can start as early as late March or mid-April. This initial wave of berries is primarily destined for grocery stores and distant markets. Peak availability for consumers, particularly for “U-Pick” operations, generally occurs from late May through July. U-Pick farms often wait until the bushes are heavily laden to maximize the consumer experience before the season ends in late July or early August.
Key Blueberry Varieties and Their Ripening Schedule
The two main types of blueberries responsible for Georgia’s long season are the Southern Highbush and the Rabbiteye varieties.
Southern Highbush Varieties
Southern Highbush blueberries are prized for their early ripening, with commercial harvest often taking place in April and May in South Georgia. These cultivars require a lower winter chilling period, making them well-suited for the state’s mild climate and allowing them to be the first to market.
Rabbiteye Varieties
Rabbiteye blueberries, which are native to the region, have a later ripening schedule, harvesting from late May through late July. They are known for their hardiness and ability to thrive in Georgia’s soils, often making them the most productive and easiest to grow statewide. This difference in maturation naturally staggers the season, allowing growers to offer fresh berries for an extended period.
Locating Fresh Georgia Blueberries
Many direct-to-consumer options provide fruit picked at its peak ripeness. U-Pick farms are a popular option, allowing visitors to harvest their own berries directly from the bush. These U-Pick operations and local farmers’ markets are excellent places to find the later-ripening Rabbiteye berries. Roadside stands, especially in rural areas, also offer pre-picked flats of berries directly from the farm. Always check a local farm’s website or social media pages before visiting, as opening dates and picking conditions are highly dependent on recent weather patterns and crop availability.