Technical Abstract: This introduction provides a lead-in to the workshop entitled: Blueberries – Now and the Future. This workshop consisted of four speakers summarizing the latest in nursery production, horticultural practices, breeding and development and the nutraceutical benefits of Vaccinium fruit commonly known as blueberries. The workshop was presented on Saturday 29 July 2006, following the Annual Business Meeting of the American Pomological Society (APS) in New Orleans, Louisiana. The APS sponsored a workshop which was attended by more than 75 scientists and growers. A taste comparison of blueberry cultivars followed the presentations.