Blueberries will not ripen after being picked so give them at least a week after they have fully darkened to sweeten up. Plants can be tip pruned by about 1/3 during the growing season to keep growth fairly compact but this is not essential. Ideally, we would also remove flowers from the developing plants for the first few seasons too so they have adequate time to develop good strong roots and growth before fruiting starts in earnest. Whilst the aim of pruning any fruit tree should be to create an open vase-shaped plant, the removal of any spindly and dead looking branches in late Winter/ early Spring is recommended. Plants generally begin cropping at about 2 years old, and pruning is required to ensure good fruiting year after year.Highbush types are more suited to cooler climates and whilst a second variety is not essential for cross-pollination, it does result in better size and quality fruit. Rabbiteye types need a different variety nearby for cross-pollination. For warmer areas, Rabbiteye types are more suitable, or the evergreen Sunshine Blue which is very reliable without a cold Winter. Most Blueberries need a chilling period in order to set fruit.It is recommended a frame is built over the Blueberry patch to ensure you get to enjoy the fruits of your labour, but ensure bird netting is used as bees are needed to pollinate the flowers. Protection from Birds: Blueberries are also a very tasty treat for birds, and as we cannot harvest them until ripe, the chances of picking them before the birds is very slim without some form of netting to protect them. Watering: Whilst Blueberries will not tolerate waterlogged soil, regular and deep watering is essential for a good crop. Positioning: Full sun, or at the very least, 4-6 hours of sunlight, preferably afternoon sun is required for good fruit ripening. ![]() Regular watering is essential remember, the quality and taste of the fruit is completely reliant on the quality of the growing conditions. Top dress the soil every year in Spring with fresh potting mix and repot when the plant starts to grow too large for the pot. In warmer months a layer of mulch will help keep the fine root system cool, and ensure plants are fertilised every 3-4 months with a slow-release fertiliser for Azaleas /Camellias (to help keep the correct soil pH). In Pots: For best results use a premium potting mix for Azaleas and Camellias and select a fairly large pot. Good quality potting mix for Azaleas and Camellias can also be dug through the soil with good results, but ensure the soil is monitored on a regular basis to make sure it stays quite low. Please be aware that all of these different products have different reactive times, with some having an immediate effect and others taking some time to work their magic. To lower soil pH dig through organic matter, peat, pine needles, aluminium sulphate or sulphur when preparing the soil. Check your soil using the kit the reading needs to be 4.5 to 5.5. A well-drained organic-rich soil is essential, and a soil pH testing kit is an essential tool for anyone planning on growing Blueberries. Blueberries require an acid soil so if Azaleas and Camellias don’t grow well in your area then you will struggle with Blueberries unless you can make the soil right for them. ![]() Soil: This is by far the most important piece of the puzzle. Home » Edible Produce » Berries & Currants » Blueberriesĭelicious Blueberries are easy to grow in your own garden so long as a few essential rules are followed:
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |