When to Plant & Grow Blueberries

Climate and Planting Area

• Blueberry plants grow in temperate climates and cannot tolerate extremely hot or cold areas. In the United States, blueberries grow best in USDA planting zones 5 through 8. Chose the planting site carefully, as blueberries live and produce for 30 to 50 years in the right environment. Plant blueberries in a sunny area. Light afternoon shade is tolerable, while full shade causes diminished fruit production. In colder areas, plant blueberries where they get some protection from harsh winter winds.

Planting Time

• Develop the soil in the planting area in the spring when the ground thaws and begins to dry out. Working garden soil too early damages the soil. Dig out a handful of dirt 6 to 8 inches deep and form it into a loose ball. When the soil feels loose and crumbles between your fingers, begin preparing the site for planting. Plant blueberries in mid- to late spring. Chose a cool day to plant, to avoid over-stressing the young blueberry plants.

Soil pH

• Blueberries require acidic soil. Any soil that has a 6.0 or lower is suitable, with the ideal range between 4.0 and 5.5. (The more acidic the soil, the lower the pH number.) University extension centers can analyze your soil for you. Amend alkaline soil with sphagnum peat moss to adjust the pH. Work a 2-inch-thick layer into the top 18 inches of the soil and then have the soil tested again.

Soil Amendment

• Blueberries are picky about soil conditions. If the soil is too wet or heavy and clay-like, the tender roots tend to rot in the ground. Plant blueberries in an area that drains well or in a raised bed. Amend the soil with 2 to 4 inches of manure and compost. Spread pH-balancing materials like sphagnum peat into the manure and compost and work all these amendments into the top 18 inches of the planting area.