Plant More Than One
Bees are necessary topollinate blueberry flowers so that the fruit develops.
For best results, place your container gardens within a few feet of each other.
Choose the Right Containers
Plant justone blueberry per large weather-proof containerwith good drainage.
Credit: Laurie Black
A half whiskey barrel with good drainage holes is ideal.
And consider investing in a plant dolly.
Prepare the Perfect Soil
Blueberries need acidic soil to thrive, ideally with a pH between 4.5 and 5.0.
They also need one that is moisture retentive but drains well.
In regions with very warm summers, they will appreciate a bit of afternoon shade.
Although these berry-producing plants will grow in part shade, they will bear much less fruit.
Fertilize with an Acidic Fertilizer
Use a fertilizerformulated for acid-loving plants.
This will help maintain the ideal pH in the soil.
Avoid fertilizers that contain nitrates or chlorides.
Apply in early spring before the leaves expand according to the label directions.
Water Deeply and Regularly
Blueberries hate to dry out, so its important to water them regularly.
The soil should be kept evenly moist.
But don’t overwater them or their roots may rot in constantly soggy soil.
Be sure your containers have good drainage.
But as the berries begin to ripen, your local bird population will take notice.
Once theharvest seasonis over, remove the netting or cover and put it away until next year.
This should be done before new growth begins.Using clean pruners, remove any dead and weak wood.
Also remove branches that rub against each other or are awkwardly placed.
you’re free to remove up to a third of the plant without damaging it.
This stimulates growth and opens the plant up to more sunlight and air circulation.
The third year you’re able to expect a small harvest.
By the fifth year, these fruit-producing plants should be in full production.
Yellow leaves usually indicates that the soil pH is too high.
