Blueberries are easy to grow in well prepared sites or containers, require little care and are resistant to many pests and diseases.

Soil Requirements

Blueberries have a shallow fibrous root system and thrive in moist, free-draining acid soils with a high proportion of organic matter. Well-drained peat soils are ideal, but mineral soils such as sandy or silt loams are also suitable, provided peat moss is added during planting and on a regular basis afterwards. Heavy clay soils which crack in summer and become waterlogged in winter are generally not suitable for blueberries. Blueberries do best with a 15-20cm/6-8“ mulch of bark over the roots to conserve moisture, prevent weeds and over time increase the soil organic matter.

Fertilisers

Blueberries require only light applications of nitrogen, phosphate and potash in the first three or four years. Continual addition of compost and mulch will generally supply their needs.

Slow-release fertilisers can be used at the beginning of the growing season.

Watering

It is essential that adequate water is available for irrigation during the growing season. Water is vital for the full development of berries which swell rapidly in the last two weeks of ripening. Lack of water results in undersized berries and a poor crop. A trickle line on both sides of the plant can be used to ensure uniform watering of the roots, but avoid over-watering. Young plants in particular are sensitive to drought stress.

Birds can cause serious damage to fruit so netting is advised.

Pests and Diseases

Blueberry plants are naturally resistant to many common pests and diseases. Phytophthora root rot is the most serious disease and can be a problem on waterlogged soils; ensure you plant in well-drained soil.

Pruning

Fruit is borne on last season’s wood, and vigorous wood bears the largest fruit. Flower buds are formed on the outer parts of the current season's growth in late summer. Pruning consists of removal of dead or diseased wood, weak growth, and old twiggy branches. After 4-5 years some of the oldest branches may need cutting back to the crown to encourage vigorous new growth. Pruning to shape may be done at any time but heavy pruning is best done in winter dormancy.