The blueberry not only bears delicious fruit high in fiber and vitamin C but does double duty as an ornamental landscape shrub. Blueberries are very easy for the home gardener to grow and enjoy.

Choosing Blueberries

• Chose blueberry varieties appropriate to you garden hardiness zone.
• While blueberries are technically self-pollinating, the use of at least two different varieties will greatly enhance fruit size and yield.

Planting Blueberries

• Plant with soil 1/4”- 1 1/2” above the root system
• Spaced 4 ft. apart and mulched regularly.
• Blueberries require acid soil with a pH of5-5.0 with a high organic content to maintain moisture.
• Newly planted blueberries will need deep watering during their first spring and summer so they can establish themselves.

Caring For Blueberries

• For best fruit production deep water when the berries begin to set and grow.
• Add iron sulfate to acidify the soil, if needed.
• Unless you have acidic soil, grow blueberries in large pots.
• Feed with a fertilizer formulated for blueberries (according to package).
• Mulching will improve plant health and fruit yield.
• Pine needles are good mulch for acid-loving

Blueberry Problems

• Insects and disease are rarely a problem.
• Netting and other protective measures for birds may be required when berries begin to ripen.

Harvesting Blueberries

• Harvest after berries has been blue for a few days for peak nutrient content.
• The immediate consumption or preservation of the berries is recommended.
• Blueberries can be used in smoothies, scones, muffins and a whole range of other delicious desserts. However, freezing my well be the easiest and way to preserve blueberries for future use.