Winter Care for Blueberry Plants

Mulch around the blueberry bush after the first frost to protect roots from pests, weeds and freezing temperatures. Spread a 2- to 4-inch layer of organic mulch over the soil around the blueberry's trunk, and maintain it throughout the winter.

Prune blueberry bushes when they go dormant after bearing fruit. Blueberries won't produce fruit without pruning, and pruning during dormancy does the least damage to the plant. Remove any dead, diseased, damaged or twiggy branches. Clip off any short, discolored wood to leave bright wood that is at least 3 inches long. During winter pruning, you should cut off one third to one half of the total wood. Avoid branches that have buds on them, as those produce the year's berry growth.

Water your blueberry bush consistently throughout the winter. Blueberries do not do well without water, even in cold temperatures. Water the bush deeply once a week if there is not enough rain or snowfall to keep it healthy.