How to Grow Blueberry Plants in Florida

Loosen soil with a shovel to a depth of at least 18 inches. Blueberries have a shallow root system but they need excellent drainage. In Florida, blueberries are planted from mid-December to mid-February, according to the University of Florida IFAS Extension.

Amend the soil with a 2 to 3 inch layer of acidic organic matter such as composted pine bark. Blueberries grow best in organic-rich, slightly acidic soil with a pH of at least 4.0 to 5.5. Florida's soil tends to be too alkaline. Adding mulch to the soil raises the acidity, improves drainage and increases the percentage of organic matter in the soil.

Select cultivars of rabbit eye or southern highbush blueberries that require the least amount of chilling hours. For central and south Florida, varieties of southern highbush such as Emerald, Jewel, and Sharpblue are recommended. For northen Florida, plant rabbiteye cultivars such as Bonita, Climax, or Beckyblue. Planting two cutlivars of rabbiteye blueberry is recommended to assure cross-pollination and good fruit development.

Spread a 3 to 4 inch layer of mulch around your blueberry to regulate soil temperature and conserve water. Keep the area around the blueberry trunk free of mulch to avoid rot.

Water your blueberry when the first few inches of soil is dry. Blueberries prefer moist, but not wet soil. Blueberries need more water in the summer months while they are actively growing than in the winter months and may only need to be irrigated during that time.

Feed your blueberry lightly but frequently with a fertilizer specifically recommended for blueberries such as 12-4-8. Spread fertilizer according to package directions in the spring and every other month until October. Do not sprinkle the fertilizer on the leaves or trunk, as this may damage the plant. A circle 2 to 3 feet in diameter around the bush will assure the nutrients get to the roots of your blueberry.

Prune your blueberry after harvest in the summer. Remove up to one-quarter of the oldest canes with sharp garden pruning shears to stimulate new growth and increased yields.