Blueberries Used as Ornamental Shrubs

Plant Selections

• Although there are several blueberry shrub species, two are commonly grown -- lowbush (Vaccinium angustifolium) and highbush (Vaccinium corymbosum). The former grows about 2 feet tall while the latter can range from 6 to 12 feet tall. Many cultivars are available in different shapes and sizes, but most of the differences center around the quality and ripening time of the fruit. When grown for ornamental purposes, select one with the size characteristics that you prefer.

Culture Requirements

• Blueberry plants require acidic soil (4.5 to 5.5 pH) that's moist and well drained. Their native range is mostly the central to eastern part of the United States where acidic soil is common. Blueberry production is most prevalent in the northern regions that experience the chilling periods required for optimum fruiting, but "low-chill" hybrids are being developed that are suitable for warmer parts of the country. Plant them in full sun or partial shade locations. Add supplemental water during periods of drought.

Planting Instructions

• Select a suitable site and dig a hole twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. If the soil is not rich, amend the backfill with a few shovelfuls of compost. Add some peat moss if a pH test indicates the soil is borderline alkaline. If the soil is too alkaline, the shrub will not do well over the long term, even with amendments. Plant the shrub and water it thoroughly to remove air pockets. Add a 2-inch layer of organic mulch to retain water and suppress weeds.

Maintenance

• Pruning blueberry plants to achieve maximum fruit production is a complex subject. However, for a home landscape ornamental, you only need to prune in the spring to remove any dead branches, and optionally to controlthe size and shape in subsequent years. Fertilizer shouldn't be necessary on a regular basis, but every few years a light application of a balanced granular fertilizer is beneficial. If the plants lack vigor, perform a soil test to assess the acidity. Add aluminum sulfate to lower the pH if needed.