containers. They're shipped to grocery stores
to be sold via Naturipe, a company that ships
globally. The rest are taken to local produce
stands and restaurants. Magnolia Street
Seafood & Grill in Arcadia and Zoets, a sweet
boutique in Punta Gorda, feature their berries
during season.
Down South Blues is PrimusGFS (Global
Food Safety) certified. The certification
process requires growers to meet a rigorous
annual review to ensure they are providing a
safe, marketable berry.
At the end of commercial season, in late
April and May when the berries are in
abundance, Jerod and Lisa invite families to
come to the farm on Thursday, Friday and
Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. to pick their
own. The earlier you arrive the better, as you'll
get the first choice of picks and the
temperature is usually cooler.
"We love seeing the families come out on
U-pick days," Lisa said. "And we encourage
people to sample them while they are picking,
so they can choose which varieties they like
the best."
Down South Blues offers five varieties of
fresh blueberries.