Blueberry

Blueberries are partially self-fertile and therefore will produce some fruit on their own. Keeping two blueberry plants (of different variety) within 100 feet of one another will increase the number of berries it produces, and tends to increase the fruit size. If you order two or more blueberry plants, we will be sure to send two different (but similar) varieties to ensure that they can act as pollinators to one another, and increase your harvest.

Blueberries thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day for optimal growth and fruit production. Placing them in a location with ample sunlight exposure ensures vigorous growth, abundant flowering, and the development of flavorful berries. They can tolerate some shade, especially in hot climates, but reduced sunlight may lead to decreased fruit yield.

Blueberries generally prefer well-drained soil and moderate moisture levels. Water until the soil is saturated and water comes out of the drainage holes. Allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings helps to prevent issues with root-rot. Let the container dry until the soil is dry to the touch 1-2 inches down and the container is lighter in weight. A plant that has wilted can be receiving either too much or too little water. A good way to test if your plant needs water is to stick your finger 3 inches down into the soil. If you don't feel much moisture, it's time to water. If your finger comes out damp, best to give it some more time before watering.

Fertilizing potted blueberry plants is essential to ensure they receive adequate nutrients for healthy growth and fruit production. Blueberries are acid-loving plants. If you ordered a kit with our signature potting media, your soil will already be slightly acidic. Fertilize in early spring, just before new growth begins, and monitor the blueberry plant regularly for signs of nutrient deficiency, such as yellowing leaves or stunted growth. If it shows these signs, you may want to fertilize again, or you may consider sprinkling in a tablespoon of fresh (unused) coffee grinds to add a little acidity to your soil. Do not fertilize later than mid-summer, or your plant may put on new growth that will be more easily harmed when the cold temperatures arrive.

Chill hours are the time that many fruit plants need between the temperatures of 32°F and 45°F over the course of a year in order to produce fruit. Asian Pears need between 150 and 400 chill hours to produce a good harvest of fruit. As this is a tricky element to track, we suggest referring to the Shrubb Simple map to understand if your area is likely to have enough chill hours for this plant.

Blueberries are typically ready for harvest in summer, from late June to August, depending on the variety and location. Harvest when the berries turn a deep blue color and easily detach from the stem with a gentle tug. Home grown berries are not likely to keep as long as those you may be used to buying in the store, so eat them within the first day or two, if they even make it off your patio!

Prune blueberry bushes during late winter to early spring while they are still dormant. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased wood first, then thin out crowded branches to improve airflow and sunlight penetration. Prune selectively to maintain a balanced shape and encourage vigorous new growth. Avoid heavy pruning, especially on young bushes, as this can reduce fruiting potential.

A common disease that your blueberries may encounter is mummy berry disease. You can identify it by the berries shriveling up to dusty white little raisins, or by leaves turning a rosy brown and curling up. As this is a fungal disease, the best way to treat it is to remove as much of the infected areas (leaves and berries) as possible, and remove them from the area. Remember that fungus is spread by spores, so if infected material ends up in the soil of your pot, it may create more fungus come spring-time.
Pests and disease often vary greatly by region. In terms of insects, neem oil can combat many problems. If you are unsure, send us a photo of your plant and the problem, and we'll do our best to identify it and suggest more specific solutions!