Finland can look forward to an exceptionally good bilberry and lingonberry harvest this year, according to the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke).
Bilberries, also known as European blueberries, had fewer blooms this year but particularly favourable weather conditions mean a better crop.
Although the bilberry harvest in the south of Finland is expected to be along typical lines, the rest of the country can expect a better-than-usual crop this year.
Heatwave won't impact lingonberry harvest
The lingonberry flowering season has ended throughout Finland. This year, there were plenty of flowers, and the number of unripe berries was also above average.
The lingonberry harvest in Kanta-Häme, Savo, North Karelia, Kainuu, and North-East Finland is expected to be excellent, with a good harvest anticipated nationwide.
Rainer Peltola, a senior researcher at the Natural Resources Institute Finland, believes that the heatwave won't ruin the harvest.
"The heat would have to be extremely intense to spoil the lingonberry harvest," he said.
The cloudberry picking season is also currently in full swing.
Peltola reminds berry enthusiasts to prioritise safety while berry picking.
"Carry phones and a backup power source, make sure your batteries are fully charged, and install the 112 emergency app on your phone," he said.
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