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Parlee Farms

Blueberries

Blueberries are one of summer’s simplest pleasures—easy to pick, easy to enjoy, and packed with natural goodness. Known for their impressive antioxidant benefits, these little blue gems have become a favorite harvest for families visiting Parlee Farms in Tyngsboro, Massachusetts, just outside of Boston.

Our blueberry story began in 1991 with the planting of our first bushes. As more and more visitors discovered the joy of fresh-picked blueberries, our blueberry fields continued to grow. Today, more than 10 acres of blueberry bushes flourish across the farm, providing an abundant summer harvest for all to enjoy.

From early-July through late August, guests can wander the manicured fields and pick their own blueberries, or choose from our freshly picked berries available in the Farmstand. With more than 10 varieties ripening throughout the season, every visit offers something a little different—from sweet and juicy early berries to the rich flavors of late summer.

Behind every great blueberry harvest is year-round care. During the quiet winter months, our team carefully prunes each blueberry bush by hand, encouraging healthy growth and helping produce the large, sweet berries our guests have come to love.

Whether you’re filling a bucket in the sunshine or baking a favorite family recipe, blueberry season at Parlee Farms is a delicious tradition worth savoring.

During the blueberry season, details on pick-your-own hours and prices can be found at TODAY’S FARM NEWS.

 

 

 

A few facts about blueberries

  • Blueberries have their greatest flavor when they are left on the bush for 7-10 days after turning blue. When ripe, the blueberries will easily come off the bush.
  • Blueberries should not be washed until you are ready to use them.
  • They have a long shelf life – almost two weeks for dry, refrigerated blueberries.
  • One cup of fresh blueberries has about 85 calories.
  • One quart of fresh blueberries weighs about 1-1/2 lbs and will yield five servings.

Freezing Tips

  • Sort through blueberries and remove stems.
  • You do not need to wash blueberries prior to freezing – you can rinse them prior to using them frozen.
  • However, if you choose to wash the berries, rinse the blueberries in a colander and let sit for 10 minutes to drain water.
  • Pat dry – the berries must be perfectly dry to avoid freezer burn and sticking together.
  • Place blueberries apart in a single layer on a cookie sheet and place in freezer. If you pre-freeze the cookie sheet, the berries will freeze faster.
  • Once frozen, place in containers or zip-lock bags and return to freezer. They will be great if used frozen in recipes, on cereal, or in smoothies!