It's Blueberry Planting Time

It's Blueberry Planting Time  

The modern blueberry is a 20th century invention. Before the 1900s, the only way to enjoy these North American natives was to find them in the wild. Then, scientists started to unlock the secrets of cultivating blueberries, and we’re glad they did! Plump, juicy berries are now easy to grow in your backyard on bushes that are resistant to most pests and diseases, and can produce for up to 20 years. Blueberry bushes are also an attractive addition to your overall landscape, offering scarlet fall foliage and creamy white spring flowers.

Planting
Blueberries are picky about soil. They require one that is acidic, high in organic matter, and well-drained yet moist. pH should ideally be between 4 and 5. Bushes should be planted in the early spring. Dig holes about 20 inches deep and 18 inches wide. Space bushes about 5 feet apart. Apply fertilizer one month after planting, not at time of planting.

Care
Mulch to keep shallow blueberry root systems moist, which is essential. Apply a 2-4 inch layer of woodchips, saw dust or pine needles after planting. Supply one to two inches of water per week. For the first four years after planting, there is no need to prune blueberry bushes. From then on, pruning is needed to stimulate growth of the new shoots that will bear fruit the following season. Drape netting over ripening blueberries, so that the birds won't make away with the entire crop. Prune plants in late winter, preferably just before growth begins. Pruned plants will not bear the season following pruning, so prune a different half of a planting every two years (or a different third of a planting every three years). Do not allow the bush to produce fruit for the first couple of years. Pinch back blossoms, this will help to stimulate growth.

Harvest/Storage
Blueberries will be ready for picking in late July-mid August. Don’t rush to pick the berries as soon as they turn blue. Wait a couple days. When they are ready, they should fall off right into your hand.

Blueberries are a very healthy and delicious fruit. Check with your local nursery to see which one of the fantastic Tomorrow's Harvest bluberry varieties they sell. You will be surprised at how many wonderful varieties there are. And as always if you have any questions on varieties, planting or anything, please let us know.

 

Here is one of the many tasty recipies that calls for blueberries. Enjoy!

Blueberry muffins
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
2/3 cup sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 egg
2/3 cup milk
1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups fresh blueberries

In a bowl, combine the first six ingredients. Combine the egg, milk, oil and vanilla; add to the dry ingredients just until moistened. Gently fold in blueberries. Fill greased or paper-line muffin cups two-thirds full. Bake at 375 degrees F for 25-27 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan to a wire rack.