Can Elliot Blueberries Do Well in Shade?

Characteristics

• Elliot blueberry bushes are cold hardy and grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture Plant Hardiness Zones 3 to 7. They reach 6 feet in height at full maturity with a spread of 5 feet. They bear small, sweet, dark berries.

Planting Site and Sun

• Blueberries require deep, highly acidic soil and quick drainage. They fail in sites holding water or restricting air circulation. While many blueberry bushes need full sun to bloom and fruit, Elliot blueberries tolerate partial shade. Plant them in full-sun sites with morning sun and afternoon shade or sites with indirect to filtered sunlight.

Soil and Nutrition

• Elliot blueberries require the right soil and nutrition to thrive, as well as correct lighting. Amend the garden soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches at planting with an 18- to 24-inch band for each plant. Dig 3 to 4 inches of peat moss or organic compost into the tilled soil to provide rich, acidic nutrition, good soil drainage and moisture retention for the bushes. Elliot blueberries need a highly acidic pH of 4.5 to 6.5 to grow.

Water and Mulch

• The Ohio State University Extension notes that blueberries fail in water fluctuations and dry environments and recommends at least 1 to 2 inches of water every week. The University also recommends sawdust, woodchips and peat moss as effective, acidic and nutritious mulching materials for blueberries. Put 2 to 4 inches of mulch over the soil in an 18-inch circle keeping the blueberries moist and protected.