About
About

Our Farm

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Bow Hill Blueberries - Our Farm

Established in 1947, Bow Hill Blueberries is the site of the oldest family-run blueberry farm in Skagit Valley. Since taking over in 2011, the Soltes family has focused on rejuvenating the soil and transitioning these historic fields to Certified Organic. The farm specializes in heirloom berries and has over 4500 bushes that are a combination of Rubel, Stanley, Jersey, and Blue Crop.

The farm store is open year-round. Pickled Blueberries, Jam, Dried, Vinegar and Sauces are all produced in small batches on the farm. Our neighbors at Lopez Island Creamery make our Blueberry Ice Cream and Evolve Chocolates in Bellingham makes our delicious Bon Bons. During the harvest, we offer Grazing Passes so that you can wander the you-pick fields and experience eating the absolute freshest, most nutritious blueberries right off the bush.

Food and farming is more than a livelihood—it’s our passion.

Harley is the chief farmer and researcher, working in the blueberry fields most days. Susan is in charge of sales, marketing and product development. Our daughter Amelia designs the farm’s branding and packaging, and our teenage son Wylie works in the packing shed during the summer. All year round, we employ 4–6 people part-time to help in the fields, create products, work in the store, and pitch in with art projects. During the harvest, as many as 25 kids and adults hand-harvest and pack 60,000 pounds of berries.

We hear stories all the time from locals who fondly remember picking blueberries in our fields as far back as the 1940s. For many, picking here was their first job. Our goal is to continue creating harvest memories and connections to farm-fresh food. We’re happy we’ve taken on the challenge of the Bow blueberry legacy and are enjoying the farm immensely. We hope you do, too.

Harley, Susan, Amelia & Wylie

How do I pick blueberries?

Our you-pick berries are the big plump variety called Blue Crop. When you lightly comb the branches with your fingers, the ripe berries fall into your hands while the unripe berries stick to the bush.

Will blueberries ripen after being picked?

No, unlike peaches or bananas, blueberries do not ripen after being picked. If they are picked red or green, they will not turn blue or become sweeter.

How do I store blueberries?

Blueberries store best in the refrigerator unwashed. When berries come fresh from the farm they can hold up for over two weeks. Wash them with cold water just before serving.

How do I freeze blueberries?

Do not wash them before freezing. Put them in a plastic bag, seal it, and then place the bag in the freezer. That’s it! No trays are needed. Wash them before eating. If you thaw them, they will retain their shape but become a little bit soft. They are excellent for baking, smoothies, and pancakes. We love eating them frozen out of the bag and right on top of hot oatmeal.

Visiting pet & animal rules
USDA health regulations do not allow us to permit animals in the field. There are wonderful places to walk nearby and we’re happy to show you where to go. We have a fenced daycare with water for your dog if you feel comfortable leaving your dog while you pick. Bow Hill Blueberries is not responsible for your animals safety.
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