Washington's blueberry bounty: A true taste of northwest delight

Daniel Schafer
Communications

When it comes to blueberries, Washington state can take a bow. That’s because our state is the #1
producer of blueberries in the world. In this blog, we’ll unpack why Washington provides such a favorable growing environment for blueberries, as well as what it means of all Washingtonians. 

Washington is a global blueberry leader

It's no understatement to say that the United States dominates the blueberry market — we grow far more blueberries than any other country — and Washington and Oregon are responsible for the vast majority of them. In 2021, Washington’s farmers produced an astounding 180 million pounds of these plump, juicy fruits, while Oregon pitched in with 150 million pounds. This significant production volume not only satisfies domestic demand but also supplies blueberries to consumers around the world, establishing Washington as a blueberry powerhouse. 

So Washington produces a ton of blueberries (actually, it’s more like 90,000 tons each year, but you know what we mean). What’s that mean for the folks who live in and visit our state? 

U-pick blueberry farms: A family-friendly tradition 

For residents and visitors alike, summertime in Washington means heading to the picturesque U-pick blueberry farms scattered throughout the state. These farms offer a unique and enjoyable experience, allowing families to immerse themselves in the beauty of the countryside while harvesting the freshest blueberries directly from the bush. If you’d like to pick blueberries at a local farm, check out this handy tool from the Washington Blueberry Commission. 

The tradition of U-pick farms fosters a sense of community while giving visitors a chance to appreciate the hard work and dedication of local farmers. What’s more, blueberries are just great. It’s hard to choose between eating them fresh, freezing them to enjoy during the winter (just rinse them off and store them in a plastic bag in your freezer), or baking them into tasty treats like muffins or scones. The good news is you don’t have to choose. Why not try all three? 

A blooming business: Growing blueberries in Washington 

Thanks to Washington's diverse geography, blueberries thrive in both western and eastern regions. Western Washington claims 55% of the state's blueberry production, while the remaining 45% of blueberries flourish in the sun-kissed lands of eastern Washington. 

Blueberries require slightly acidic and damp yet well-drained soil to thrive, which makes many parts of Washington an ideal environment for home gardeners to grow their own. If you have access to a few square feet of garden, you can nurture blueberries too. There’s nothing quite like caring for a blueberry bush that responds by providing fresh berries. 

Blueberry season is now!

Whether you choose to pick your own berries at a U-pick farm, enjoy locally grown blueberries from markets, or cultivate them in your backyard, Washington's blueberries promise an unparalleled taste of northwest delight. 

So, as summer rolls on, embrace the blueberry season, relish in their sweet flavor, and take pride in knowing that each berry you enjoy is a product of the state's dedication to agricultural excellence. Whether they're topping your morning cereal or making their way into luscious pies, Washington's blueberries are a symbol of Washington's agriculture and community.

Correction: A previous version of this blog incorrectly stated that the United States grows the majority of blueberries produced in the world. The U.S. in fact produces more blueberries than any other country, but it is not a majority of the global total.