Blueberries make a wonderful addition to any garden, and they're fairly easy to grow! Today we'll show you exactly how to grow blueberries, care for them, and harvest them. Blueberries have a tart but sweet taste and make amazing desserts, salads, and are perfect on their own. Packed with anti-oxidants, blueberries do more than just taste great – they're good for you too!
How to Grow Blueberries
Source: Fast-Growing-Trees
Blueberry bushes are easy to grow, and most varieties are pest resistant. If cared for properly, a blueberry bush can keep giving you their amazing fruit for 20 years!
Planting Blueberries:
- Blueberries love acidic soil that is high in organic matter as well a moist, well-drained soil.
- The bushes should be planted in the early spring. If possible, purchase blueberry bushes from you local nursery that are already 1-3 years old.
- Dig holes that are about 20 inches deep and 18 inches wide.
- Space each bush about 5 feet apart.
- You may apply fertilizer one month after planting, but do not apply any fertilizer right at planting.
Caring for Your Blueberry Bushes:
Source: Dimeofarms
- To keep the bushes moist, mulch right after planting. You can use woodchips, saw dust, or pine needles.
- Water one to two inches per week.
- There is no need to prune your blueberry bushes for the first four years. After four years, pruning is needed to stimulate growth.
- To prevent birds and other animals from eating the blueberries, throw a net over the bushes.
- The bushes should not be allowed to grow any fruit for the first two years (this is why you should purchase a plant that is already 1-3 years old!). Pinch back the blossoms to help growth.
Harvesting Blueberries:
Source: Hgtv
- Blueberries are usually ready to be picked in late July to beginning of August.
- Once blueberries turn blue, don't pick them right away: wait a couple of days!
- The blueberries should fall right into your hand.
Happy Planting!
