Planting Your New Blueberry Bush
Planting:
- Choose a location with well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
- Prepare the soil by removing weeds, grass, and debris, then amend with organic matter such as compost or peat moss.
- Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
- Remove the plant from its container and loosen any tangled roots. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with soil.
- Water thoroughly to settle soil around the roots.
- Mulch around the base of the plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Care:
- Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilize in early spring and mid-summer with an acidic fertilizer specifically formulated for blueberries.
- Prune annually, removing any dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
- Apply a fresh layer of mulch each year to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
- Monitor for pests and diseases and treat promptly if necessary.
Note: Blueberry bushes benefit from cross-pollination, so it is recommended to plant at least two different varieties for maximum fruit production.