Blueberry plants
Blueberries are in the same family as azaleas and rhododendrons. They do not have a dominant tap root or deep penetrating roots. In an ideal situation, this creates a shallow root zone of roughly 6–12 inches, though roots can reach deeper in well-drained, aerated soil.
Blueberries grow well in acid soils with a pH of about 4.0 to 5.5 and can grow in shade or full sun.
Site and soil preparation
Because blueberries have a shallow root system, only the top 6–12 inches of soil needs to be prepared. The area should be well drained. There should be no standing water, even during periods of maximum rain. Excess water should be able to drain away from the plants within a few hours.
Spacing and planting
Spacing within a row may average 3–6 feet depending on preference. Three feet gives a high-density planting and forms a hedge quickly; 5–6 feet is an average distance between plants. Plants can also be grouped, separated as singles, or planted within a landscape.
The farm’s guidance identifies winter through early spring as the best planting window. Prepare a hole about 2 feet in diameter and about 8 inches deep. If the soil appears poor, supplement it with good potting soil or compost and fill the hole about half full with loose soil mix.
For a potted plant, remove it and fan the roots horizontally. Do not let roots dry out, freeze, or remain exposed to ultraviolet light. Keep them wrapped or covered with something damp until planting. Place the plant in the hole, fan the roots in all directions, rake 3–4 inches of soil over them, pack the soil, then wet it so it settles around the roots. Do not fertilize at planting time.
Water and mulch
The root zone should be kept moist, but not too wet. A top mulch of 1–4 inches helps conserve water and control weeds. Mulch can include leaves, pine needles, hay, or bark.
During summer, plants need about 1 inch of rainfall per week, depending on the soil.
Fertilizer
Fertilizers formulated for azaleas and rhododendrons are usually suitable for blueberries. Blueberries tolerate only small amounts of nitrogen at a time. Fertilize in small amounts or with a specially formulated slow-release fertilizer no greater than 10-10-10.
The farm’s original guidance recommends fertilizing just before or during the change from bud to bloom, and again soon after fruit harvest in late summer.