Berry season is almost here. As you’ve probably heard, the list of health benefits associated with these bite-size superfoods is long.

They’re loaded with antioxidants, help fight inflammation and are a great source of fiber, vitamins and nutrients. In addition to being nutritious, berries require little to no prep and appeal to kids and adults alike. All those reasons make berries a great “pick” for an easy, crowd-pleasing snack or addition to a meal.

The best part: you don’t have to go far to find them. Berry farms are sprinkled throughout the area. You can make the most of this sweet season by getting outside and picking your own.

“Picking berries with family and friends is a great way to incorporate three important aspects of health – movement, nutrition, and social connection, into one delightful outing,” explains Jessica Coleman, integrative oncology health and wellness coach at University of Vermont Cancer Center.

Coleman notes that when thinking about our health, we often consider movement and nutrition but sometimes leave out social connection. It’s those connections, she adds, that are a critical piece of the pie impacting our physical and mental health.

Berry Picking Order 

If you’d like to get out there and plan a trip, knowing when to pick what is key. Below is a guide to bring you a berry-bountiful summer from June through September:

• Strawberries: Beginning of June through mid-July.
• Gooseberries: Beginning of July through end of August.
• Blueberries: Mid-July through end of August.
• Raspberries: Mid-August through mid-September.
• Blackberries: Mid-August through end of September. 

Healthy Berry Recipes

Remember, berries can be eaten fresh right after picking, or frozen and stored for later. Here are some great recipes to try out this season:

• Berry Fun Smoothie
• Frozen Yogurt Bark
• Summer Strawberry Crisp