How to Protect Blueberries During the Winter

Blueberries come in two varieties, lowland and highbush. Both types of blueberries need highly acidic soil to thrive, from 4.5 to 5.2 on the pH scale, according to the University of Maine. Like most fruiting plants, blueberries need full sun and well-drained soil to grow well. While blueberries grow naturally in cold climates, winter protection will ensure their survival and fruitfulness from year to year.

Things You'll Need

• Mulch

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Stop fertilizing blueberries in July so they can harden off by winter.

   • 2

     Water the ground around the blueberries for 10 to 15 minutes before the frost in your area is supposed to set in.

   • 3

     Mulch around the base of the blueberry plants with a 4- to 5-inch layer of pine bark mulch after the ground freezes.

   • 4

     Water the blueberries when it is extremely dry out or the snow melts for 10 minutes to maintain moisture in the soil. Moist soil is warmer than dry soil.