At Bennett Orchards, we grow six different varieties of "Larger than Life," Northern Highbush Bennett Blueberries. Our harvest typically begins in early to mid June and lasts through mid to late July. Overall, Bennett Blueberry Season typically lasts for 4 to 6 weeks. Ripening dates of the varieties listed below tend to overlap quite a bit, so multiple varieties are often available simultaneously. These dates are approximate and do vary from year to year, so it is important to contact us by phone at 302 732 3358 or visit our homepage prior to visiting our historic farmstead to pick-your-own Bennett Blueberries. You may also visit our homepage to see our daily farmers market location(s) and times, in-season, and find out what varieties are currently available at market. In order of ripening, and with a harvest duration of about 2 to 3 weeks per varietal, Bennett Orchards offers the following Bennett Blueberry Varieties:
Duke- The earliest Bennett Blueberry variety, available in early to mid June and usually lasting until the end of June, this beautiful berry kicks off our season with an excellent size, a citrusy-sweet flavor profile and a lovely powder blue finish.These large, vigorous plants provide impressive yields and amazing flavor, making Duke a true local favorite.
Spartan- A few days after Duke, in early to mid June, Spartan graces us with an enormous size and beautiful deep blue color. Taste testings among our loyal fans have decided the flavor of Spartan to be one of the best and we couldn't agree more. Spartan's enchanting and impressively sweet flavor has made it a customer favorite for years. They always seem to fly off of our bushes, so be sure and get them while they last.
Draper- About a week after Spartan, our Draper variety of Bennett Blueberries comes into season. This early to mid season berry, available towards the middle and end of June, is highly productive with outstanding quality, making picking them a breeze. Draper is exceptionally firm, in a good way, giving it an excellent shelf life that is ideal for eating fresh by the handful, baking or freezing. Their immense size, sapphire hue, candied flavor and crisp texture have granted this variety a special place in the heart of any Bennett Blueberry fanatic.
TopShelf- Available around late June, this brand new variety of Bennett Blueberries first started producing in 2021. A relative newcomer, this remarkable berry was quick to amaze us with its huge size and super-sweet flavor. This sky blue, firm yet juicy berry boasts a tropical flavor that will take your breath away. We don't have as many of these plants as our other varieties so your best bet is to find them at one of our farmers market locations.
BlueRay- Around late June to early July, this heirloom Bennett Blueberry variety makes its appearance. These colossal, indigo-blue Bennett Blueberries bear a superb, floral-like flavor that is revered by all. Having been grown on the Delmarva peninsula since the 1940's, these berries have withstood the test of time and are a staple of early summer for residents and visitors alike on the Delmarva peninsula. This tried-and-true variety of Bennett Blueberries remains perfect for any use.
BlueCrop- The final variety of our season, available around the first of July and lasting until mid to late July, our flagship variety of Bennett Blueberries is an heirloom berry that has also been grown on Delmarva since the early 1940's. This time-tested varietal has remained the "gold standard" of all blueberries. Delicious, exceptionally nutritious, and with an amazing shelf life, these humungous Bennett Blueberries have a classic, sweet berry flavor and alluring aroma. Its visually stunning and graceful powdery blue appearance is accompanied by mouthwatering flavor. Over decades, many varieties have come and gone but BlueCrop reigns supreme. Don't just take our word for it, the relatively extended harvest window of this variety ensures plenty of availability for you to pick-your-own and to purchase at our farmers market locations. The last variety of our season and arguably the most bountiful, BlueCrop is ideal to eat bowls-upon-bowls fresh or to preserve, bake, and freeze, among other uses.
Please reference our Storing & Freezing Bennett Blueberries page for information on how to freeze, store, and prolong the shelf life of all varieties of Bennett Blueberries, allowing you to maintain their exquisite flavor.
We also offer Farmstead Recipes for additional ideas on how to further enjoy Bennett Blueberries.
"Blueberries Larger than Life!"
