One of the ways my family saves money on produce is to pick it ourselves. In the Hampton Roads area we have been able to pick strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and peaches.
Last weekend we ventured out to Pungo Blueberries and picked 9 lbs. of blackberries and 4 lbs. of blueberries. At just $1.95 a lb. this is a huge savings for our family. It also makes for some fun family memories too.
There were a lot of blueberries on the vine and by next week they are going to be in abundance. There were also a TON of blackberries on the vine and made picking quick and easy. They tasted much better than any I have ever had from a grocery store. So we decided to stock up.
After picking way more blackberries than I had originally planned, I came home determined not to let any go to waste. So far I have frozen 3 cups, made 2 quarts of blackberry syrup, 1 cobbler, 1 gallon of blackberry lemonade, and canned 8 pints of jam. I still have about 3 cups left for the kiddos to eat throughout the week unless of course I find another recipe to try!
Total blackberry cost was just $18.00 and look how I have been able to preserve the berries so that they will last me throughout the year. A small jar of jam alone would cost at least $3.50 in the store.
If you are looking for ways to save money on produce this is the way to go!
I would recommend calling for picking conditions and hours before heading out there.
Pungo Blueberries Etc.
3477 Muddy Creek Road
Virginia Beach VA 23456
721-7434
Would you please post the recipes?