U-Pick FAQ
When is blueberry season in Wisconsin? Early July through mid-August. Our 2024 season wrapped up on August 9th. See you in July 2025!
What do I need to bring with me? A sense of adventure! But we also recommend a shade hat, sunblock, and a bottle of water. It can be hot out there.
Do I need to bring my own containers for picking? No. We have containers on site for you to use for picking. These can be used to easily pick up to 9 pints (a flat of berries) in a single container.
Do I need to bring my own containers for taking my berries home? No, but you are welcome to do so if you’d prefer to bring your own berry storage! We will measure out the berries you pick before you leave, however.
Why are there no pre-picked blueberries available this year? Due to lack of farm support this year we are unable to pre-pick berries. We hope to offer this again in the future!
How can I pay for my U-Pick experience? We take cash and check only at the farm, purely due to poor reception for using electronic methods of payment. If you see us out in the world at Farmer’s Markets, we’ll take Venmo and credit cards.
Is there a public bathroom on-site? There are no public restrooms at Smallfolk Farm.
Why are you only open Wed - Fri- Sun? We want to make certain you have the best possible experience picking. By being open every other day we ensure our berries are ripe when picking occurs.
I am unavailable on your U-Pick days/times. Could I come at a different time? We do have limited by-appointment picking times on our off-days. Reach out to us on Facebook, email smallfolkfarm@gmail.com, or text Farmer Dave for availability.
What is with this sparkly ribbon everywhere? This reflective tape spins in the wind and deters birds from eating our delicious blueberry crop. Unfortunately, it doesn’t spook bugs. Darn.
Why are your blueberries coated in some white stuff? This coating is a natural part of the fruit lifecycle. The bloom, as it is called, is a silvery-white substance on the surface of the blueberries that acts as a barrier against insects and bacteria and helps seal in the fruit’s moisture. It is completely natural and totally safe to eat.
Do I need to wear a mask/social distance/etc.? We are committed to the safety of both you and our farmers. If you are coming out to Smallfolk Farm, we recommend you adhere to the current Dane County COVID-19 recommendations, including social distancing. We shall do the same for you.
Fresh Blueberry Care
Leave picked berries in an open container to prevent mosture from forming.
Do not leave in direct sunlight. Chill berries quickly after picking.
Don’t wash berries until you’re ready to eat them. Washing removes the bloom that protects the skin; washing will make the berries go soft quickly.
Before storing, remove overripe and damaged berries, stems, and leaves. These could spread mold and contaminate your whole collection.
Unripe berries that are even a bit purple, red, or blue-ish will typically ripen after they are picked if kept at room temperature. White or green berries will NOT ripen. Discard white or green berries.
Blueberry Storage
Do not wash berries before storing them whole - either in the refrigerator or freezer. Wash directly before eating.
Refrigerate in an open container for 10-14 days from picking.
To freeze:
Ensure berries are completely dry.
Place berries in a single layer on a cookie sheet. Avoid the berries touching each other as much as possible.
Place cookie sheet flat into the freezer. Leave for approximately 4 hours; length of time will depend on the temperature of your freezer.
Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container for longer storage.
Frozen berries are best within 6 months but can be stored for up to 12.
Thawing frozen berries is quick! Cover frozen berries with room-temperature water. Wait 5 minutes per cup of berries. Drain, dry, use.
Blueberry Picking
Picking blueberries is easy!
The best blueberries are round, solid blue, and have plump, solid skins.
Larger berries tend to be sweeter, smaller berries tend to be tarter. Sweet berries are great for snacking. Tart berries are great for baking!
Blueberries typically grow in a cluster. Gently run your fingers over the berries. The berries that come loose easily are ripe. Leave the others to continue to ripen.
Unripe berries are white, green, entirely red, or only purple around the stem.
It is common for one cluster to only have a few ripe berries. Only pick ripe berries.
The waxy silvery-white substance on the blueberries is called “bloom”. It’s a natural barrier against insects and bacteria that seals in the berry’s moisture. The bloom will come off under your touch. Berries with bloom are completely safe to eat and a sign of a healthy bush!
Clusters tend to want to hide under leaves and branches. Explore the entire plant when picking - just be gentle when lifting branches so you don’t lose any precious, ripe fruit!
Health Benefits of Blueberries
Current scientific research qualifies blueberries are a superfood! There are many benefits attributed to blueberries including…
Blueberries are low in calories and high in nutrients. 1 cup of blueberries has approximately [1]:
84 calories
15 grams of carbohydrates
4 grams of fiber
24% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin C
36% of the recommended daily intake of Vitamin K
25% of the recommended daily intake of Manganese
Blueberries are believed to have the highest antioxidant levels of all common fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants protect your body from free radicals; molecules that contribute to aging and body-damaging diseases, such as cancer.