What's Happing in the Community Garden?

Blackberry Harvest

We have already begun harvesting our deliciously sweet blackberries. Thornless blackberries thrive in southeast Louisiana's warm climate and should be harvested from late June to early August, depending on the variety. To determine if the berries are ready, look for a deep, rich color and a slight softness when gently squeezed. During the growing season, regular watering is essential, particularly in dry spells, applying mulch can help retain soil moisture. Additionally, pruning in late winter encourages healthy growth and fruit, ensuring your thornless blackberry plants are productive year after year.

Keeping Thornless Blackberries Fresh

So, you’ve got your hands on some delicious thornless blackberries, huh? Let’s make sure they stay fresh and tasty for as long as possible. Here’s the lowdown on keeping those little gems in top shape:

• Chill Them Out: As soon as you get your blackberries home, pop them in the fridge. They love a cool spot, ideally between 30°F and 32°F (-1°C to 0°C).

• Container Magic: Grab a shallow container and line it with some paper towels. This helps soak up any extra moisture. Just remember, don’t seal them up tight—those berries need to breathe!

• Hold Off on the Wash: Only wash your blackberries right before you’re ready to munch on them. Washing too early can lead to unwanted moisture, and nobody wants moldy berries!

• Eat Them Up: Aim to enjoy your blackberries within 5 to 7 days for the best flavor and freshness. Trust me, they won't last long!

Cleaning Thornless Blackberries

Now that you’ve got your blackberries stored like a pro, it’s time to give them a little wash before you dig in. Here’s how to do it right:

• Rinse Away: Toss your blackberries into a colander and rinse them gently under cool running water. Be super careful not to squish them—those little guys are delicate!

• Soaking (Optional): If you want to go the extra mile, soak the berries in a mix of water and vinegar (1 part vinegar to 3 parts water) for about 5 minutes. This helps get rid of any pesky pesticides or residues.

• Rinse Again: After soaking, give them another gentle rinse under cool water to wash away any vinegar taste.

• Dry Them Off: Pat the blackberries dry with a clean paper towel or let them air dry in the colander. No one likes soggy berries!

With these tips, you’ll be set to enjoy fresh and clean thornless blackberries whenever the craving strikes!

The summer heat is here and it's time to renew the mulch in the garden. If you can help provide pine needles for the garden, please contact our Community Garden Coordinator, Gina Schuette at gschuetteccc@gmail.com .