On my property, the delicate appearance of Juneberry trees became apparent in early spring as they are among the first to welcome the season with their charming white flowers amid the forest floor. Without these early bloomers, I likely wouldn't have noticed them at all. This time is essential advice for anyone who wants to identify and harvest these berries themselves.
As the season progresses, the full green of the surrounding trees can make June berries more difficult to spot. This camouflage adds a layer of challenge but also a bit of excitement to the foraging process. By the time the berries ripen, which usually starts in June, everything else is lush and leafy. Keeping an annual reminder to start checking trees for ripe berries around this time can be quite helpful.
The harvest window is quite short though, often only 1-2 weeks, so timing is of the essence if you want to pick your own. Look for the berries to turn a deep purple color and become slightly soft when gently squeezed. If you pick them too early, they won't be as tasty, and if you wait too long, they'll become browned and overcooked.
Gathering these berries provides not only a delightful addition to various recipes, but also a moment to connect deeply with the cycle of the seasons and the bounty of nature.
