Blueberries

Planting blueberries

Plant dormant shrubs in early spring or late fall. Test the soil pH before buying plants, since blueberries fail in neutral or alkaline ground.

Planting details

• Spacing: 4 to 6 feet between bushes
• Plant two varieties for better pollination and heavier crops
• Set plants at the same depth they grew in the pot

Growing requirements

Blueberries need acidic soil between pH 4.5 and 5.5, full sun, and consistent moisture. Their roots are shallow and dry out fast, so keep several inches of pine bark or pine needle mulch over the root zone.

Harvesting and care

Net bushes before the fruit colors or birds will harvest most of the crop. In late winter, prune out the oldest canes at ground level so the bush keeps renewing productive wood.

Common mistakes

• Planting into neutral or alkaline soil, which yellows leaves and stalls growth
• Spreading lime or wood ash nearby, which pushes the pH the wrong direction
• Letting shallow roots dry out in summer, which drops the following year's flower buds

Companion plants

Azaleas, rhododendrons, and other acid-loving plants share blueberry beds naturally. Herbs and vegetables that prefer neutral soil should grow elsewhere.