The strawberries have come and gone, but it’s not too late to get outdoors and pick some fresh blueberries. The warm temperatures that we had back in April brought an earlier than usual season for several of our fruit and vegetable crops. There are several local blueberry fields right in the area which offer u-pick for as little as $1.50 a pound.
In Chinese medicine, food is characterized based on how it effects your energy and health. Foods are typically referred to as either being cooling (yin) or warming (yang) to the body. Everything we eat has an effect on certain energy systems in the body.
Blueberries help nourish our yin energy. They aide in tonifying the kidneys and nourish the blood. They astringe the body fluids and help to slow the aging process. They can also help with poor concentration, memory problems, overall weakness, frequent urination and anemia. So, not only do blueberries taste great, they’re good for us as well.
There are two blueberry fields right across I-90 in Bellevue (around a 15 minute drive from the Seward Park office):
Mercer Slough Blueberry Farm
2380 Bellevue Way SE
- Open mid-June through August 31.
- Hours vary – call the farm for more information.
- Cash or checks only, please.
- Information and product availability:
Farm – 425-260-2266
Bellevue Parks – 425-452-7225 - Driving directions – From I-90, take Bellevue Way exit north. Turn right into the blueberry farm after passing the Park & Ride.
Larsen Lake Blueberry Farm
700 148th Avenue SE
- Open July through August 31.
- Hours vary – please call the farm for more information.
- Cash or checks only, please.
- Information and product availability:
Farm – 425-260-2266
Bellevue Parks – 425-452-7225 - Driving directions – From I-90, take 148th Avenue SE exit (BCC exit, 11B) north. Turn right into parking lot just past SE 8th Street.
The blueberries should be around until the end of August, but try to get out there soon before the fields are picked over. Enjoy those blueberries!