Wild Maine Blueberries

Wild Blueberries are the official state berry for Maine. The State has over 60,000 acres of Wild Blueberries that grow naturally in fields and barrens stretching from the downeast region to the southwest corner of the State. It is hard to travel anywhere in Maine without coming across a Wild Blueberry plant with luscious berries ripe for picking.

Wild Blueberries adapt well to the naturally acid, minimal fertile soils and the challenging winters in Maine. Wild Blueberries were first used by Maine's Native Americans who used the tiny blue berries because of their flavor and their healing capabilities. Native Americans used the berries both fresh and dried. The stain made from the berries was also used as a dye. The Wild Blueberries were not grown and harvested commercially until the 1840's. Today, the annual crop has a value of more than $75 million. Thanks to the concern of blueberry growers for the sustainability of the land; tourists can continue to enjoy scenic views and wildlife in Maine.