How to Grow Blueberries in Southern California

Test the pH of the selected planting site with a soil testing kit. Sensitive to soil pH, blueberries prefer acidic soils with a pH between 4.8 and 5.2. Loosen the soil to a depth of 8 inches and add 4 to 7 lb. of sulfur to every 100-square-foot area to lower the pH of the soil.

Dig an 18-inch deep and equally wide hole over the amended area. Rake the sides of the hole to allow roots of the plant to penetrate. Add 1 cubic foot of peat moss to the hole and mix. Add existing soil back to the hole until 4 inches below the top. Space multiple holes 3 feet apart.

Remove the blueberry plant from its nursery pot and place it in the 4-inch hole, ensuring it rests at the same depth as it did in the container.

Spread a 2-inch thick layer of organic mulch to cover the area around each plant.

Irrigate each blueberry plant with a soaker hose after planting, providing water deep down to the roots. Water each plant two to three times a week to maintain an evenly moist soil at all times. Sensitive to drought, blueberries will need additional water as the temperature in Southern California rises.

Remove tiny flower blossoms that appear on the blueberry branches during the first or second year. Pinch these off with your fingers and discard. This practice reserves the plant's energy and increases fruit yield in upcoming years.

Cover blueberries with netting or incorporate scare devices to deter birds from eating the blueberries before you harvest them.