Burst of Blue

Speckles of blue dot the Washington landscape from backyard gardens to the farm fields of the upper Willamette Valley. Blueberries are viewed as a blessing of antioxidants and are known as a superfood in the nutritional world. They have earned this status as they provide vitamins C, K, and manganese, making them a well-loved summer crop. Their health benefits abound and the Washington Blueberry Commission lists some of those benefits: decreased inflammation, improved memory, lowered blood sugar, and heart health.

Continuing the burst of production as the summer heat endures through July is easy, the fruit will continue producing if watered deeply and top-dressed in their favorite acidic treats. Do this by mixing spent coffee grounds into a quart of water and dousing the plant base. Be sure to keep fir mulch deep around the diameter of the plant, as the acidic Douglas Fir offers the perfect pH for your blueberries.

Planting borage, also known as comfrey, will help repel aphids and add trace minerals to the soil. Flowers and herbs that attract pollinators and function as a ground cover are much appreciated by blueberries too; these can include mint, lemon balm, thyme, and chives. For plants that quickly spread, such as mint, growing them in a pot nearby will still serve the purpose of attracting bees.

Blueberries are the sweetest if allowed to sit on the bush for a few days once they turn blue, the berry will become matte and juicy, perfect for your favorite recipe. In addition, they will stay fresh if left unwashed and refrigerated for up to a week. Chutneys, pies, muffins, mojitos, and more, the possibilities are endless and will leave you yearning for more. These sweet drops of sunshine preserve well and will last up to 6 months in the freezer. Dehydrating is a favorite option for mixing into yogurt.

13,000 acres of blueberry varieties grace the Washington landscape, according to the Washington Blueberry Commission. Fifty-five percent of Washington blueberries come from the western part of the state where the climate and timbered soils offer enticing habitat for production. 2019 USDA production statistics show blueberry revenue across the United States is valued at $720.2 million, with a harvest of 673 million pounds. Washington is at the forefront of production, valuing $228.4 million in 2021 and 180 million pounds produced.

Enjoy Washington’s tasty blueberries by celebrating this superfood with a quick and easy recipe to boost your blueberry intake this summer.

Blueberry Banana Smoothie

½ cup blueberries,

frozen

½ banana, frozen

2 TB rolled oats

1 TB flax or chia seeds

1 tsp cinnamon

milk of choice

honey to sweeten (optional)

Add all ingredients to a blender, putting wet ingredients in first. Mix everything on high speed until a rich, smooth, and silky texture is reached. If it is too thick add more milk and blend again. This can easily be poured into a popsicle mold and frozen for a delicious treat to enjoy as well.