Tools for Blueberry Picking

Containers

• You can't go blueberry picking without durable containers or baskets to hold the berries. Don't use large containers because some of the berries on the bottom might become squished from the weight of the berries on top. Bring several smaller baskets, boxes or plastic bins to blueberry farms, instead of one large bin. Fill up two baskets or small 5 quart bins with berries and place these in your car. Get two or more bins at a time until you have enough berries. Pick firm or slightly plump, blue, purple or gray-blue berries. Avoid picking white or green blueberries because these berries won't ripen after being removed from the bush.

Small Step Ladder

• Many blueberry bushes stand about 4 feet tall, so usually you don't need a ladder, but some very mature bushes can exceed heights of more than 6 feet. In this case, a small step ladder can make the job easier. Use a ladder to pick berries at the very top of Northern highbush species.

Small Scissors or Harvest Shears

• You can easily remove blueberries from the bush with your fingers, but you might want to use small scissors or shears instead. When using these tools, cut the berry off the bush at the top near the stem. Avoid cutting or damaging the branch. Hold your other hand underneath as you cut to catch any loose berries that fall off also.

Havest Scale

• Bring a harvest scale with you to weigh your blueberries. These small scales allow you to decide if you've picked too many or too few berries, as some farmers charge you for the berries based on weight. Many berry picking farms have a scale, but you might want to bring a scale of your own to double check the weight.