What Time of the Year Are Blackberries Ripe?

Season

• Blackberries are at their peak in June in the southern United States. In the north, they ripen a little later, in July. Ripening is dependent on the weather.

Ripening

• Ripe blackberries are deep purplish-black in color, with no signs of red. They will be plump and juicy, and will easily pull away from the plant.

Picking

• When picking blackberries, wear jeans and a heavy, long-sleeved shirt to protect the skin from thorns. Loose clothing will snag on the plants.

Storing

• Blackberries will keep in the refrigerator for up to a week, but are best when eaten fresh. Blackberries left at room temperature will mold quickly, so plan to use or freeze blackberries right away.

Freezing

• To freeze fresh blackberries, wash and place them in a plastic bag. Freeze. Blackberries will keep for several months in the freezer.