Did you know July is National Blueberry Month? This month, we celebrate these little blue beauties and their impressive health benefits, remarkable flavor, and overall goodness!
Health Benefits of Blueberries
Blueberries are a nutritious snack, perfect for daily eating. A sweet superfood, blueberries are full of antioxidants. Not only are they delicious, but they also boost your immune system and brain function, reduce the risk of heart disease and have anti-inflammatory properties. And that’s not all! They are also linked to improving mental health, diabetes management, lowering your risk of cancer and increasing bone strength.
Where are Wish Farms blueberries grown?
At Wish Farms, we grow or market blueberries, both conventional and organic year-round from different regions of North and South America.
Are there different types of blueberries?
There are four main categories of blueberries: Northern Highbush, Southern Highbush, Rabbiteye and Lowbush – and, within those categories, are hundreds of varieties. Different varieties are grown based on climate and region.
Which blueberry variety is grown at Wish Farms?
At our own farms, we typically grow several different varieties to diversify the crop and protect it from potential disease or a threatening pest that could wipe it out.
Growing Blueberries at Home
Growing blueberries in your garden? Here are some Pixie tips:
- Plant in a container, like a large pot
- They prefer full sun, but tolerate some shade
- Blueberries thrive in acidic soils, high in organic matter – like peat moss and pine bark
- They need to be well watered and don’t tolerate water stress very well
How to enjoy blueberries
There are many ways to incorporate blueberries in your diet for a natural boost of sweetness. They make for a delicious snack on their own, especially as a frozen treat in the summer months! Our Pixie tip for eating blueberries? Eat them in bites of three. Some blueberries are extra sweet and some more tangy. This allows you to get the full, true flavor of the variety.
Blueberry Recipes
Blueberries are incredibly versatile. You can add them to smoothies, yogurt, salads, oatmeal, baked goods, or even savory dishes for a burst of natural sweetness.
For some tasty blueberry recipes, click here.
