Do Blueberry Plants Produce All Summer?

Varieties

• Each blueberry plant produces one crop of berries per season. Blueberries are not self-fertile; cross-pollination from different varieties is required to produce berries. Varieties are grouped according to the time of blooming and subsequent ripening. Bushes will be tagged as early, mid-season or late. For good pollination and an abundant crop, gardeners should plant varieties from each group. The blooming periods overlap for good pollination and the ripening times overlap as well. Extend your blueberry harvest by growing several varieties that represent the full seasonal range.

Types

• Blueberry bushes are also categorized as highbush or lowbush. Highbush blueberries may be 8 feet or more in height, covered with berries. Lowbush blueberries are small, shrubby plants that may reach 1 to 2 feet in height and grow with a spreading habit. Several varieties from the different ripening groups make up both categories, with no appreciable difference in the berries they produce.

Where to Plant

• Plant blueberry bushes in full sun for optimum plant and fruit size. Blueberries will also tolerate partial shade, but production will be reduced. Blueberry bushes have relatively shallow roots, so locate them in an area with well-drained soil where they will receive ample water. If your area has periods of drought, plant your blueberries where you will be able to water them easily.

Fertilizer and Amendments

• Blueberries need acid soil. According to the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council, the soil pH should test between 4.09 and 5. In most areas, you will need to amend the soil to bring the pH level down before you plant blueberries. Address the soil pH three to four months before planting. Add peat, which will also add humus and improve soil drainage, or add agricultural sulfur. Retest the soil at least once a year and amend as needed to maintain the acidity. Yellow leaves are a warning sign of pH imbalance.

Vanishing Berries

• Not only are blueberries favored by humans, birds and small wildlife also relish them. You may watch your blueberry bushes bloom, set fruit and ripen, only to find that most of the berries disappear right before you can pick them. Birds are notorious berry-snatchers. Use netting over the bushes to keep birds at bay; simply fold back the netting when you want access to pick the berries.