Blueberries
Blueberries are native to the eastern United States. Pacific Northwest varieties are hybrids of these natives. They are self fertile in pollination, but growers should plant more than one variety
to increase yields and extend the harvest season. Blueberries are long-lived and can produce high yields at 50 years of age. Full bearing is not reached until 7 or 8 years of age.
Planting
- Soil. Any soil with high organic matter and good water holding capacity. An acid soil in the range of 4.5 to 5.5 pH is ideal.
- Established weeds. Remove all weeds, especially perennials prior to planting.
- Planting. Plant dormant plants in late winter or spring when available. Add peat moss or rotted sawdust to the soil when planting, if necessary. Mulching will help to protect the shallow root system from temperature fluctuations and drying.
- Pruning. Prune after planting to stimulate new vigorous growth. Strip off blossoms the first two years to concentrate on vegetative growth. Prune mature plants to retain 1- to 3-year-old wood for
best fruit production.
- Fertilization
The amount depends on rate of previous growth. Use three separate applications for optimal growth. Ammonium sulfate is a good acid forming fertilizer.
- Irrigation. Blueberries prefer moist soil, but also adequate drainage. Apply 1 to 2 inches of water when irrigating once every
2 weeks in summer. Blueberries are well adapted to drip irrigation systems. Mulch up to 6 inches to conserve water.
Diseases and Pests
- Mummyberry and botrytis fruit rot. Mummyberry can be very severe in wet weather.
- Relatively insect-free. Scale, root weevils and cherry fruitworm can be a localized problem.
- Birds will be a persistent problem. Net the plants as the berries start to color up.
Further Information
Written by Jim Kropf, WSU Area Extension Agent, King/Pierce Counties
Reviewed 1998.
Links repaired 8/16/05
