The History of Wild Blueberries

Wild blueberries, also known as “lowbush” blueberries, are native to the northeastern United States. The location of many existing wild blueberry barrens can be traced back to the last period of glaciation in the United States. This is likely because wild blueberries naturally establish themselves following a disturbance. They also thrive in specific soil and environmental conditions that aren’t widespread. Because of this, over 95% of wild blueberries are produced in Maine. Modern wild blueberry barrens are typically naturally occurring blueberry fields that growers nurture. Notably, growers introduce regular disturbances like mowing or fires to help increase the total number of blueberries produced year over year. Because they are so genetically diverse due to evolution in place, wild blueberries don’t require a lot of pesticides to grow. Some are even grown in accordance with certified organic farming practices. Today, around 98% of wild blueberries grown in the U.S. are flash-frozen and shipped around the country (and even internationally) for people to enjoy. Wild blueberries are often eaten on top of cereal or yogurt or are baked into breakfast muffins or blueberry pies.