How Often Should I Water Blueberry Bushes?

Soil and Moisture Considerations

• Blueberries require well-drained soil, as soggy roots cause the plants to decline and die. If water remains in a 6- to 8- inch deep hole dug in the blueberry bed for more than 24 hours following rain, the soil drains too poorly for blueberry production. Working compost, peat and other organic matter into slower draining soils before you plant may improve the bed so it retains the right amount of moisture.

Water Needs

• Newly planted blueberries need frequent irrigation so they can establish a healthy root system and adjust to their new bed. Providing the equivalent of 1 to 2 inches of rain a week from planting until the plants go dormant in fall keeps the soil moist but not soggy. Once established, the blueberries can tolerate brief dry periods but should still receive weekly irrigation for best fruit production. A water application of 1 to 2 inches moistens the top 6 to 8 inches of soil in the bed, which ensures moisture penetrates to the entire root zone of the plants.

Irrigation Frequency and Methods

• The proper irrigation methods ensure the moisture reaches the plants. Shallow watering often provides less water to the roots than less frequent deep watering. Once weekly watering that supplies the full 1 to 2 inches of moisture for each plant encourages the blueberries to produce deep, healthy root systems. Using a drip hose or hand watering at the base of the bushes further ensures the moisture penetrates the soil instead of evaporating away from the plant.

Mulch Benefits

• A layer of mulch around the base of the blueberries helps retain moisture in the soil so the plants don't require watering as often. Well-mulched plants rarely need more than once-weekly watering and the plants are less likely to suffer stress if they go without water for a longer period of time. Mulch layers of 3 to 4 inches deep provide the best moisture benefits to blueberries. Pine bark or pine straw mulches also help add acidity to the soil as they break down, which further helps the blueberry bush produce healthy growth.