Fast Growing Blueberry Bushes

Season and Planting

• Blueberry bushes are hardy to cold temperatures, but do best with relatively warm starts. North Carolina State University recommends starting the plants in late winter in most of the country, with fall starts possible in warm U.S. Department of Agriculture Growing Zones 8 and 9. The University also recommends starting with two- to three-year-old seedlings form a nursery for the quickest possible start.

Site and Space

• Blueberry bushes need full sunshine all day to grow and bear their fruit, with enough space for sun and air exposure. Choose sites that get bright sun for eight hours a day during summer, and good fall and winter drainage. Give highbush variety blueberries 4 to 5 feet in the row and rabbiteye varieties 6 feet. Leave 8 to 12 feet between rows, respectively. Blueberry bushes won't grow when crowded.

Soil, Pruning, Mulching

• Blueberries require extremely acidic soil, amendments and mulch for quick, healthy growth. Amend the top 14 to 16 inches of any blueberry planting site with up to 10 inches of organic compost or peat moss. Prune blueberry seedlings by 2/3 of their growth after planting, to encourage new, healthy growth. Keep 2 to 3 inches of pine needles, wood chips or sawdust mulch on top of the soil to keep it warm and moist.

Food and Water

• Blueberry bushes need regular food and water applications to grow and fruit. Water the bushes with 2 inches of water each week to keep the soil moist. Feed blueberries one month after planting, and every six weeks thereafter until mid-summer, with 1 tbsp. of azalea, 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 fertilizer. Double the rates in the second year, and increase to 1 cup per application in the third year and thereafter. North Carolina State University recommends adding 1/4 cup of ammonium nitrate at every feeding, starting in the third year, to increase vegetative growth. Always follow manufacturer guidelines in regard to fertilizer application, and water the bushes after feedings.