Genuine MS® Members Showcase Summer’s Sweetest Harvest

June is National Blueberry and Watermelon Month, a time to celebrate two of Mississippi’s most beloved summer crops. Whether purchased at a local farmers market, picked fresh from the farm or enjoyed at family gatherings throughout the season, blueberries and watermelons are staples of summer in the Magnolia State. From family farms and orchards to agritourism destinations and community-based operations, Genuine MS® members are helping provide fresh, locally grown blueberries and watermelons to consumers across the state and beyond.

Across Mississippi, Genuine MS® members are growing these summer favorites in ways as unique as the farms themselves. Mississippi’s blueberry industry continues to flourish thanks to growers like Addison Blueberry Farms in Duck Hill. What began as a small planting has grown into a thriving operation with hundreds of blueberry plants, demonstrating how specialty crop production can create opportunities for family farms while meeting consumer demand for locally grown fruit.

In Wiggins, Bounds Blueberry Farm, known as the “Home of the Happy Berry,” welcomes visitors each season to enjoy the experience of harvesting their own blueberries. The farm’s family-friendly atmosphere and commitment to quality have made it a favorite destination for both residents and visitors.

Bowie Creek Orchard in Mendenhall demonstrates how Mississippi-grown products can reach consumers far beyond the farm gate. Known for producing high-quality blueberries, the orchard packages and distributes its berries to Kroger grocery stores, allowing shoppers throughout the region to enjoy fresh Mississippi-grown fruit while supporting a family-owned operation.

Near Hattiesburg, Sandy Run Farms combines blueberry production with agritourism. Owned by the Goggans family since 1930, the farm offers U-pick blueberries and family-friendly activities that help visitors connect with agriculture while learning more about where their food comes from. The farm has become a destination for families looking to experience Mississippi agriculture firsthand.

Great Southern Farms in Richton has helped establish Mississippi as a major player in blueberry production. With extensive acreage devoted to blueberries and a packing facility that serves growers throughout the region, the operation helps bring Mississippi-grown berries to markets across the country while supporting fellow producers.

In Poplarville, JD Farms has expanded the possibilities of Mississippi blueberry production through innovation and value-added products. In addition to fresh blueberries, the farm produces specialty teas through Pearl River Tea Company, along with blueberry-infused teas, coffees, baked goods and pet treats. By transforming blueberries into unique products for both people and pets, JD Farms demonstrates how diversification can strengthen Mississippi agriculture.

Heavenly Trace Farm and Orchard in Madison rounds out the state’s blueberry offerings with a commitment to quality fruit and responsible stewardship, providing customers with fresh blueberries grown with care and attention to the land.

In Morton, Cooper’s Farms showcases the diversity of Mississippi agriculture by growing both blueberries and watermelons, giving consumers the opportunity to enjoy two of summer’s favorite fruits from one local farm. Owner Tim Cooper regularly connects with customers through the Genuine MS® Farmers Markets in Jackson and Brandon, where he offers fresh, locally grown produce each Saturday throughout the season.

Watermelon season is equally important to Mississippi’s agricultural heritage. In Lucedale, Charlie’s U-Pik and Eubanks Produce has become one of the state’s premier farm-to-consumer success stories. What began when Charlie Eubanks opened a tomato field to the public has grown into a thriving agritourism destination. Today, the Eubanks family grows, packs and ships produce from approximately 2,000 acres, supplying both wholesale markets and direct-to-consumer sales, with watermelons remaining one of their signature crops. Spanning five generations, the family’s commitment to providing fresh, affordable produce continues to attract customers and retail partners from across the region.

Also in Lucedale, Croom Farms represents four generations of agricultural tradition. Operated by Gadston and Megan Croom, the farm grows a variety of fruits and vegetables while emphasizing sustainable farming practices and a commitment to quality. In addition to serving retail customers, the farm supplies wholesale markets, helping bring Mississippi-grown produce to consumers throughout the region. Their watermelon crop remains a seasonal favorite and a key part of the farm’s diverse operation.

Dry Bottom Farms in Weir continues Mississippi’s longstanding tradition of watermelon production, while Fresh Grown Farms in Jackson supplies consumers with locally grown produce harvested at peak freshness. The farm also offers a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, allowing members to purchase a share of the harvest and receive fresh, seasonal produce throughout the growing season while directly supporting local farming operations.

Foot Print Farms in Jackson demonstrates how agriculture can serve as a catalyst for community development. Founded by Dr. Cindy Ayers Elliott, the 68-acre specialty crop, vegetable farm grows seasonal produce, including watermelons, while educating youth and promoting healthy food access. Through agritourism, conservation practices and educational outreach, the farm continues to inspire future generations of agricultural leaders.

In the Mississippi Delta, Morris Watermelon Farm in Marks carries on a proud tradition of watermelon production. Owner Morris Hodges has been recognized for his contributions to agriculture and continues to produce quality watermelons that reflect the rich farming heritage of the Delta.

As consumers increasingly seek fresh, locally grown foods, Mississippi farmers continue to deliver products that are both nutritious and flavorful. This National Blueberry and Watermelon Month, consider supporting a Genuine MS® member. Every basket of blueberries and every watermelon purchased helps strengthen local farms, sustain rural communities and preserve Mississippi’s rich agricultural heritage for future generations.