As typical with most things this year, blackberries are about three weeks early. Even with the lack of rain, nice berries can be found in areas out of the direct sun light like ravines and wooded areas. Any shade will help. Fortunately June bugs and Japanese beetles are not focused on the berries yet, but chiggers and ticks are waiting for you in full force.
The last few years I have found that the berries you intend to make jelly out of can be cooked down and juiced. Pour the juice into a clean plastic litter drink container and freeze. This saves on freezer space and eliminates freezer burn. This also reduces the time that it takes to make the jelly later. Another handy tip is to have a container that is tied around your waist leaving both hands for the picking.
Enjoy the outdoors, Greg
