We’re No. 1 — in blueberries

Georgia leads the nation in blueberry production, surpassing long-time berry boss Michigan.

The Peach State produced 96 million pounds of blueberries this year, according to the North American Blueberry Council. Michigan grew 91.5 million pounds.

Georgia planted 20,000 blueberry acres this year, most scattered across South Georgia and able to withstand the state’s sandy soils and hot summers. University of Georgia blueberry breeder Scott NeSmith developed 15 blueberry varieties over the last decade, including top performers Rebel, Vernon and Ochlockonee.