Soil
Requirements:
Blueberries are a member of the
ericaceous plant group that includes
rhododendron and azaleas that require a somewhat acidic soil containing
generous amounts of organic matter. Excellent drainage is essential in
a moist, friable soil.
Site Selection:
A site with full sun is best
although blueberries will thrive nicely in partial shade as long as
there is no interference from tree roots or building overhangs.
Northern high bush and half-high varieties are deciduous which
enables them to be more tolerant of cold winter winds than their
evergreen rhododendron relatives.
Note:
for more detailed information on blueberry planting, refer to our
rhododendron and azalea tip sheet.
Do NOT follow the pest and disease control on this reference as it does
not take into account edible crops like blueberries.
Pest Control:
While blueberries have few insect
pests, an organic insecticide such as Neem Oil an or insecticidal soap
is fine to use if problems occur. Birds just love ripening blueberries
so that bird netting will be required when fruit begins to ripen if you
plan to harvest any berries
Fertilization:
An application of Holly-tone as directed in early spring and fall is all
that is required although a 1-2” layer of mulch of Sweet Peet will
provide additional organic slow-release nutrients, keep roots cool from
the hot summer sun, and help to conserve moisture as the plants are
shallow rooted.
Choosing your Blueberries:
1. Plant
Size—decide if you want a low
growing half-high for the foundation planting or a larger Northern
highbush for the garden or a spot in the landscape where a larger bush
is desired.
2. Bearing
times—depending
on the variety, blueberries bear from early July through September in
northern Ohio. Select varieties that will provide a continuous bounty of
fruit through the whole season and remember that it is better to plant
two varieties for the best pollination.
3. Fruit
taste
and
fruit
size—our
chart gives and indication of each varieties berry size and taste. The
size of berry will depend on your desired use which might be large
berries for pies, jams, jellies or fresh eating, while smaller berries
would be better for blueberry muffins and pancakes
4. Other
selection considerations are fall
color desired which range from red, orange to yellow and the color of
the woody stems from burgundy, red to yellow. Although most flower
colors are white, some varieties have colorful hot pink flowers that
fade to white.
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