Picking Wild Berries
In the Mid West the time to pick wild berries is July and August. You can start with the Red & Yellow Raspberry, then the Black Raspberry & Mulberry, followed by the Blueberry and then the Blackberry. Altogether its just a great time to be out in nature seeing the wildlife and picking the fruit it has to offer.
Picking Red & Yellow Raspberries
Red and Yellow Raspberries turn ripe in early June and continue through July and may bear fruit more than once a year. Research in this area has shown that the anti-cancer benefits of raspberries may extend beyond their basic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory aspects. Phytonutrients in raspberries may also be able to change the signals that are sent to potential or existing cancer cells. Oh and they taste great!
Picking Mulberries
Wild Mulberries turn ripe in early July and are very tasty. They are full of vitamin c, iron, calcium and protein. Mulberries are highly valued for both their sweet berry flavor and medicinal value. They contain high levels of Reserveratrol, which is the same powerful antioxidant that is found in the skin of red grapes and red wine.
Picking Black Raspberries
Black Raspberries turn ripe in Mid July and are the best tasting of the raspberries. They offer the same benefits described under Red and Yellow Raspberries. which contain the antioxidants alpha and beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and choline. Raspberries are also a powerful source of polyphenols such as anthocyanin, flavonols and ellagitannins. Oh and these taste incredible!
Picking Blueberries
Wild Blueberries turn ripe in late July or early August and can be easily found in the upper part of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan. Blueberries are known for warding off heart disease. The blueberry’s fiber, potassium, folate, vitamin C, vitamin B6 and phytonutrient content, coupled with its lack of cholesterol, all support heart health. The fiber in blueberries helps lower the total amount of cholesterol in the blood and decrease the risk of heart disease. As for eating you can eat them plain, in cereal, with cream, and my favorite in pancakes.
Picking Blackberries
Blackberries turn ripe in late July and early August and do not have the same sweetness as the Raspberries. Much like spinach, raisins, apples, plums and grapes, blackberries are rich in bioflavonoids and Vitamin C, but other nutritional benefits include a very low sodium count and having only 62 calories to a cup. The dark blue colour ensures blackberries have one of the highest antioxidant levels of all fruits.
Picking Strawberries
Wild Strawberries turn ripe in June and even though they are very small compared to those grown in the garden they are still very tasty. Strawberries are rich in the essential nutrients vitamin C, potassium, folic acid and fiber. One cup of fresh strawberries contains 160% of your daily needs for vitamin C.