Growing Blueberries: Blue Clustered Crops for the PNW

Blueberries are one of my favorite landscape and edible plants! All season features flowers, fruits, fall foliage and winter colored stems. There are 4 reasons to grow Blueberries-

1. Nutritous Berries- high in Vitamin C (wound healing, growth & development), Manganese (helps process cholesterol, carbohydrates & protiens), Diertary Fiber (adds bulk, feel fuller) https://www.blueberrycouncil.org/blueberry-nutrition/health-benefits-blueberries/ for more info

2. All Season- features flowers, fruits, fall foliage and winter colored stems.

3. Easy to Grow- See Below

4. Food for Wildlife- Attracts Beneficial insects, pollinators, extra fruit feeds wildlife, birds, etc.

Growing Blueberries really isn’t that hard, provided that you give them the right conditions in order for them to thrive.

Here are some suggestions:

Location & Soil- Choose a spot that receives full to part sun for 6-8 hours. Avoid high wind areas, Protect branches from heavy snow pack. Needs well-draining, Acidic Soil high in organic matter.

Water- Likes regular water, especially during summer- to reduce heat stress and produce juicy fruit.

Fertilizer- Use an Organic Acid Fertilizer, same one used for Rhodies, Azaleas, Heather, Camellias, PNW Natives & Ferns, etc.- we like G&B. Apply during initial planting, then 2-3 times during the growing season- Mid-March and May. Then top dress or mulch with an acid planting mix to conserve moisture, choke out weeds and protect roots.

Planting- In early spring to early summer or fall, before or after extreme heat or below extreme freezing weather. Space 4’ feet + apart, depending upon variety.

Pruning- Allow your plants to grow and establish for at least 3 years before you prune. Do not let plants younger than 3 years bear fruit, this can kill your plant. Or purchase older plants that can bear fruit sooner. Established plants can be pruned as needed- goal is to promote grow