Blueberries

Marie Hildebrandt, Erie County Master Gardener Growing blueberries is a rewarding variation on homeowner gardening. It is one that requires attention to detail and patience. The reward of course is fresh blueberries.Blueberries are simple to grow, but not nearly as simple as growing annuals, perennials or shrubs. Blueberries, in order to thrive, require acidic soil, a soil type that is not common in Ohio. Acidic soil is the major secret to success. For that reason alone, many gardeners shy away from growing blueberry bushes, but it is not that difficult to overcome the soil requirement barrier.The pH level in the soil required to grow blueberries should be in the 4.5 to 5.0 range. While the plants may grow in less acidic soil, fruit production is low and the leaves on the bushes are sparse. To solve the problem of poor soil conditions there are three possible solutions. The bushes can be grown in the existing landscape bed after the soil has been properly amended; create raised beds filled with an acidic growing mix; or, the bushes can be planted in containers with the proper medium.Although many may consider it not worth the trouble, growing blueberry bushes is a great way to meet the popular garden to table challenge. While container gardening is the simplest solution to growing blueberries if the landscape soil is not acidic, those grown in-ground are likely to live longer.For information on supplementing soil to increase the acidity refer to Ohioline fact sheet HYG1422. Soil testing information can be obtained through Ohioline fact sheet HYG 1133. For growing blueberries in containers prepare a medium that includes one part sphagnum peat moss and one part shredded pine bark or half peat moss and half potting soil (again test the soil).To overwinter blueberry bushes those in containers can be moved to an unheated garage or shed or bury the container in the ground so that the ground heat will protect the roots.In Ohio, Gary Gao, Associate Professor and Extension Specialist at The Ohio State University, recommends purchasing highbush plants. There are several different cultivars of highbush blueberries. He recommends planting at least two different cultivars because the cross pollination will produce larger blueberries. Apply fertilizer specifically designated for acid loving plants such as azaleas and rhododendron.Blueberries have a shallow root system and are sensitive to water fluctuations. The plants require one to two inches of water each week. Gao says to continue watering after the fruit is harvested to keep the soil moist. Next year's flower buds form in late August and September. Drought stress will reduce the fruit yield the following year.Mulching helps control weeds, conserve moisture and keep the roots cool. Gao recommends using sawdust, wood chips or peat moss. Decomposition of the mulch helps improve the soil and nutrient uptake. It should be kept to a depth of two to four inches.In-ground plants and container plants should be placed in full sun, although they should be protected from the harshness of late afternoon sun. Cover bushes with netting when the berries are forming to protect them from birds. During the winter months it may be necessary to cover the in-ground plants with burlap to protect them from harsh winds. It is also suggested that early winter is the ideal time to prune out old, weak and dead wood. This will encourage new growth the following season.