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Blueberry

Vaccinium corymbosum

Fruit

Blueberries are long-lived, productive shrubs that require very acidic soil and at least two compatible varieties for cross-pollination. Their stunning autumn colour makes them as ornamental as they are productive.

Growing Conditions

Sunlight

Full Sun

Water Needs

Moderate

Soil

Acidic, well-draining peat or ericaceous compost; pH 4.5–5.5

Spacing

4–6 feet

Days to Maturity

2–3 years to first significant harvest; full production in 5–6 years

Growing Zones

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13

Thrives in USDA Zones 4–10

Companion Planting

Good Companions

Keep Away From

When to Plant

  • Transplant

    Early spring or autumn; plant at least 2 compatible varieties

  • Harvest

    Harvest when berries are fully blue and detach easily — about 1 week after turning blue

Organic Growing Tips

  • Acidify soil with pine needle mulch, composted bark, or sulphur chips before planting.

  • Net plants with fine mesh as berries begin to ripen to protect from birds.

  • Plant comfrey nearby to act as a mineral accumulator that feeds blueberries through chop-and-drop.

  • Test soil pH annually; blueberries are highly sensitive and will fail in alkaline soil.

Common Pests

  • Birds
  • Aphids
  • Blueberry Maggot
  • Mummyberry Fungus
  • Spotted Wing Drosophila

All pest management in Garden uses safe, organic, non-toxic methods only. No synthetic pesticides, ever.