How Do I Winterize Blueberry Bushes?

Cold protection for blueberry bushes is not a major concern unless the bushes are growing in large containers, where roots can reach the temperature of surrounding air. Blueberry bushes in the ground need nothing more than a layer of mulch or shredded leaves about 3 inches deep around the base to help keep root temperatures between 10 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Some species of highbush blueberries will live more than 50 years this way, and almost all blueberry cultivars require cold winters to be productive. Bushes in containers, however, need special care to make it through the winter.

Unheated garage or shed
Shovel

Instructions

- 1
  Move blueberry bushes in containers to an unheated garage or shed when they go dormant in the fall. The walls of a building will shield the roots from windchill temperatures that can kill in some northern regions.
- 2
  Drag the containers out on mild winter days so they can get occasional light, leaving them against a sheltering wall for protection from northern winds. Water once a month. Move them back into the shed if temperatures are forecast to go below 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
- 3
  Check the blueberry bushes periodically. If you see new shoots developing, it's not cold enough and the bush is coming out of dormancy too early. Grab a shovel and drag the container-grown bushes back outdoors.
- 4
  Dig a hole equal in diameter and depth to the container. Bury the container in the hole up to its lip. The surrounding soil will quickly cool the container to the outdoor soil temperature. Soil is a wonderful insulator and the blueberry bush will overwinter well.
- 5
  Remove the container from the hole in spring after the last frost has passed and resume normal watering and fertilizing. Repot the blueberry bush in fresh soil every two to three years for the health of the plant.

How do I Grow a Blueberry Bush From Seed?

Growing Blueberry Bushes in Northeast Michigan

Growing Blueberries