It's been a banner year for blueberries, says Karam Dhanwant, who has been growing the delicate summer treat for over 30 years. But like all good things, even blueberry season must end.
There are only a few weeks left to purchase or pick berries at the six-acre u-pick farm before summer turns to fall and the leafy shrubs take a break until next spring.
Dhanwant said consumers have been getting great berries - and deals - at the farm gate, and, with some of the sweetest berries around, the Port Coquitlam farm has been drawing pickers from near and far.
"The season is much better than last year," Dhanwant explained, noting that the more moderate spring and summer temperatures, along with the sun, have helped produce a top crop. "People are happy," he added.
For example, Dhanwant's Ankar Farm Market at 2952 Burns Road in Port Coquitlam sells berries at $1.50 per pound for amounts under 10 pounds and $1 per pound for 10 pounds or more.
"We well straight to the people," said Dhanwant, noting that people appreciate the freshness of newly-picked berries. "They have this conscience that they want to support the farms."
Blueberries can also be found, along with other B.C. grown fruits and vegetables at local farmer's markets.
The next market in Port Coquitlam is tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 15, running from 3-7 p.m. when there will be a Senior's Tea. PoCo's market runs Thursdays to Sept. 26 at Leigh Square.
Coquitlam's Farmer's Markets run Sundays to Oct. 27, in the Dogwood Pavilion parking lot off Poirier Street, but the 9th annual Blueberry Pancake Breakfast paying homage to the delicious berry will take place Sunday, Aug. 18.
In Port Moody, the next farmer's market is Friday, Aug. 16 at the Port Moody Recreation Complex running from 3-7 p.m. PoMo's market runs every Friday until Oct. 25.
