How to Pick Blackberries in Arkansas
- 1). Plan to harvest berries in early morning if possible. It be cooler for you, and berries picked in cooler temperatures do not spoil as quickly as those picked when temperatures are high.
- 2). Find berries that are deep black. Reddish or purplish berries are not fully ripe. A good berry will also look plump and feel full and somewhat firm, not mushy.
- 3). Carefully reach between stems; many Blackberry varieties have thorns. You'll also be able to find more berries just inside the plant that other people (and animals) have missed. Gently grasp the berry at the top (where it connects to the stem) and pull it away. Ripe berries will not be difficult to pick.
- 4). Place berries gently in your container. You may find it easiest to set your container on the ground, pick a handful of berries and put them in the container. Do not place too many berries in one container (no more than 5 inches deep). This prevents fruit damage.
- 5). Place the container of berries in a cool location (out of the sun) as soon as possible. Once you are home, refrigerate at a temperature of 34 to 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid washing until just time to eat; washed berries spoil quickly.
Source...