Learning on the Land--It's the Berries
Lampson Blueberries was the site for Saturday's Learning on the Land series with Blue Mountain Land Trust. The acreage is located on Walla Walla River Road, only two miles from the turnoff at Highway 11 at the south end of Milton-Freewater. Clark Lampson and his wife are the owners and growers of over 20 varieties of blueberries which are sold exclusively as U-Pick during the short 30-day summer season.
Nestled along the Walla Walla River, several acres of blueberry bushes thrive in the NE Oregon sun.
The Lampsons have learned through research along with trial and error which varieties do best in the specific climate
of hot, dry summers and potentially cold winters.
Samples of 12 varieties were available for tasting as each has a slightly different taste with some being very sweet while others are definitely more tart.
When coming to U-Pick, the Lampsons try to direct you to the size and flavor of berry that you prefer.
Of course, that all depends upon which berries are ready for picking that day.
Depending upon the variety, blueberries ripen differently.
On some bushes, the blueberries ripen one or two at a time, making picking a little more challenging for the blueberry connoisseur.
Whereas with other varieties, the berries ripen in a group, making blueberry picking easy for kids and those who want instant blueberry gratification.
All I know is that I have yet to meet a blueberry I don't like.
They look delicious!
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