Picking wild blackberries, black raspberries, and even dewberries is one of those simple joys that feels like a DIY treasure hunt. You’ll find these juicy gems growing on blackberry bushes along sunny roadsides, meadows, and even tucked away in fields. The dark purple, ripe blackberries are easy to spot, just like the ones you’d buy from the store. And whether you’re snacking on fresh blackberries or planning a delicious blackberry cobbler or pie, hunting for these berries is an adventure worth taking. You may even find other wild treats like mulberries, elderberries, and even blueberries on your search.
In this article, I’ll talk about where blackberries and raspberries grow, what they look like, when blackberry season is, and share some tips to make your berry-picking experience even better. Whether you’re after blackberries, wild raspberries, or other delicious finds, this guide will help you get the most out of your foraging trip.
About Wild Blackberries and Raspberries
Wild blackberries and raspberries are some of the easiest wild berries to recognize, making them perfect for beginner pickers. They grow in those classic, tiny clusters, and the best part is they don’t have any dangerous look-alikes. You can confidently pick and eat them without worrying about mistaking them for something poisonous. Whether you’re after ripe blackberries or black raspberries, you’ll find they’re similar in both taste and how they’re picked — deliciously sweet and ready to enjoy straight off the bush.
Both blackberries and black raspberries belong to the Rubus genus, also known as brambles. These thorny, bristly plants, which also include dewberries, are a common sight in the summer months. Not only are they tasty, but these berries are packed with nutrients. They’re rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, which are known for reducing inflammation and protecting against certain diseases. So, when you’re out there picking, you’re not just grabbing a sweet snack — you’re also reaping some pretty great health benefits.
Where Blackberries and Raspberries Grow
Blackberries and raspberries are the kind of plants you can find just about anywhere. Whether you’re walking along a trail or hanging out near the edge of a field, chances are you’ll spot them in sunny spots like meadows, open woods, or even by streams and lakes. Sometimes, you’ll get lucky and come across a hidden patch near a cornfield or tucked away at the edge of a forest. These wild berries love the sun and plenty of space to spread their roots, which is why they make for such a sweet summer treat.
While you can find wild varieties all over North America, states like California, Oregon, and Washington are the real champions of blackberry and raspberry production in the U.S. The Pacific Northwest, in particular, is a major hub for growing blackberries, though places like Arkansas and Michigan also put out impressive harvests. Interestingly, blackberries are native to more than just North America — they actually come from several continents, including Asia and Europe.
What They Look Like
Wild blackberries and raspberries are easy to tell apart once you know what to look for. Blackberries are always black when they’re ripe, while raspberries come in either red or black, depending on the variety. The easiest way to tell the difference is by looking at how the berries attach to the stem. Raspberries are hollow and cup-shaped because they slip off their core when you pick them, leaving that little empty space. Blackberries, on the other hand, are solid all the way through, clinging firmly to the stem when you harvest them.
If you’re trying to identify the plants themselves, pay attention to their leaves and stems. Both plants have three oval-shaped, toothed leaves, and they typically grow in brambles — those thick, tangled masses of vines. The stems of wild varieties are covered in thorns, so be careful when you’re picking those berries. However, if you’re in a garden or orchard, you might come across cultivated varieties that are thornless, making them much easier to handle. With a bit of practice, you’ll become an expert at spotting these tasty wild berries.
Blackberry and Raspberry Picking Season
Picking blackberries and raspberries is a summer delight, and knowing when to hit the picking spots can make all the difference. In the spring, keep an eye out for the plants’ small white blooms — they’re a great sign that berries are on their way. For warmer climates, blackberries start ripening in May or June, while in cooler areas, you’ll see them ready around July. Blackberries are in full swing from late spring through the end of summer, with the peak season hitting in July and August.
Wild raspberries, on the other hand, usually appear from late June to early July. The fruit begins to ripen around this time, and the picking season typically lasts about a month. If you’re itching for some fresh raspberries, I recommend late June to early July as the perfect window. Both berries offer plenty of time to enjoy their juicy sweetness.
Blackberry and Raspberry Picking Tips
As you head out with your pails and baskets, follow these tips for successful wild berry picking:
- Where to Find Berries: Look along sunny roadways, fences, and in overgrown meadows. Berries are especially common at the edge of wooded areas, which means you can easily spot them along the sides of country highways and around the edges of pastures and farm fields. Be sure to ask permission before picking berries on private property.
- Protect Yourself: In addition to being thorny, blackberries and raspberries tend to grow in wild. Unpleasant companions like wasps, snakes, mosquitoes, chiggers, and poison ivy frequently inhabit wild, overgrown areas. Wear closed shoes, long pants, and long sleeves to protect your skin from stings and bites. Gloves are also helpful but tend to snag on the thorns.
- Make Noise: People aren’t the only ones who enjoy blackberries. Be sure to make plenty of noise to alert other nibbling critters, such as bears and snakes, of your presence.
- Pick Only Ripe Berries: Pick only the best blackberries and raspberries, since they won’t ripen after harvesting. Look for berries that are large, plump, and deeply colored, and choose the ones that easily slip off the stem. If you have to tug, the berry isn’t ripe yet. I recommend tasting a few berries while picking to find the ripest, sweetest ones.
- Carry a Container: Drop your berries into a shallow bucket or basket. You can use a lightweight plastic bowl or colander. It’s OK to fill the container, but don’t pack them in or press them down. Since the plants are so thorny, give everybody their own bucket, so you don’t have to detangle yourself every time your hands are full.
- Be Patient: The best berries often hide in the middle of the plant. If you search out the ripe ones, you may find that you can get all the berries you want without taking more than a few steps.
- After Picking: Keep your blackberries or raspberries in the shade and get them into the fridge or a cooler as soon as possible. They’ll keep for a few days, possibly a week, in the fridge. Don’t wash them until right before you’re going to use them. To wash, rinse the berries in cool water, discarding any rotten or squashed ones.
- Salt Water Bath: Some veteran berry pickers like to soak the fresh berries for an hour or two in salt water — one cup per gallon. This will dislodge any little grubs that might be hiding inside.
- Eating Berries: You can enjoy berries in all sorts of ways. Sprinkle fresh berries on cereal or salads, make jam, enjoy cobblers and pies, and freeze the leftovers for smoothies or a midwinter treat. Blackberries and raspberries pack vitamins and antioxidants, so other than a possible stomachache, you can’t overeat them.
Further Reading
How to Pick and Store Fresh Strawberries from Your Garden (article)
Which Fruits and Vegetables Continue to Ripen After Picking? (article)
Final Thoughts
Now that you know the best spots to find wild blackberries and raspberries, and when to head out for picking, you’re ready to enjoy the fun of exploring. From the sunny edges of fields to hidden patches near forests, these juicy summer berries are just waiting to be discovered. With the right timing and a little patience, you’ll be filling your basket with delicious, ripe blackberries and raspberries in no time.
Berry picking isn’t just about the harvest — it’s about the experience. Whether you’re enjoying the fresh air, the thrill of finding a perfect patch, or imagining all the tasty treats you’ll make, there’s something special about gathering your own wild fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to pick wild blackberries without getting scratched?
To pick wild blackberries without getting scratched, wear long sleeves and gloves to protect your skin, and always look closely before reaching into the thorny bushes.
Are wild raspberries and blackberries edible?
Yes, wild raspberries and blackberries are safe to eat and easy to tell apart.
