Description

Blueberry plants are a deciduous, dense thicket of upright stems growing to a height and spread of up to 1.8 metres and displays bright green leaves which turn magnificently scarlet in autumn. It produces clusters of pendulous pale pink flowers followed by edible bright blue berries. After picking the fresh berries, they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. The berries are low in calories and a great source of iron and vitamins C and A. They are the perfect berry for muffins, jams, juicing, cakes, ice cream etc.

Cultivation

Blueberries prefer an organic rich, moist, acidic soil. Acidity can be improved with the addition of powdered Sulphur. They should be planted in a sheltered position where they will receive morning sun and afternoon shade. Prepare the growing site by digging over the soil and adding a good handful of blood and bone or rich compost prior to planting out. Plant them about 1.5 to 2 metres apart. Apply light applications of fertiliser until the plant reaches an established height of about 1m, then apply more liberal applications of fertiliser.

Once established, you should generously mulch around the plant to prevent moisture loss and to provide protection for the surface roots. Blueberries need moist soil during the growing season and require extra water as the fruit reaches maturity. Berries will appear after 1-3 years. After about 5 years, prune the older wood to about 30cm above ground level to promote new shoots from the base of the bush. Also remove old twigs and dead wood. Pruning should be done during winter. Blueberries need to ripen on the bush and can be hand picked every 10 days. If picked too early they will not reach their optimum size and sweetness.