Blueberry - Preparations

Although blueberries are perceived as difficult to grow, like many other crops, they are in fact easy provided the correct preparation and maintenance is given. It is best to begin land preparation in the spring for an autumn planting.

Points for consideration are:

Soil samples should be analysed for mineral content, pH and nematodes as well as water samples for minerals and pH.

Field layout should be designed as direction and flat or sloping fields can have major influences. Spacings and margins should also be taken into consideration. In addition wind direction can influence the decision.

Blueberry plants require irrigation, and an irrigation system should be designed in conjunction with the supplier. Blueberries do not like 'wet feet' since they do not have tap roots. It is vitally important to level out wet spots prior to bed making as this will cut down the risks of root rot.

Depending on soil analysis, organic matter may be needed, as could fumigation.

Plants should be ordered well in advance to ensure the desired cultivars are available. Hargreaves Plants advises to order at least six months in advance as this helps the nursery to allocate plants to growers. (Deposits will be requested)

Acidic growing mediums are important to ensure good growth and adjusting fertility using organic matter is usually only required on land that has not been left fallow the previous year and only if it is below 10%.

Soil amendments to adjust pH to 5.0-5.5 using sulphur or lime may be required as well as potassium, phosphorus and trace elements.

Weed elimination and control programmes for perennial weeds are essential, as blueberries do not like competition for root space.

Cultivation on a regular basis in the preparation and subsequent crop management is recommended to weaken seed reservoirs and give a cleaner field site.

Using glass or permanent tunnels will normally involve using a blueberry substrate material. This will contain a wetting agent and slow release fertiliser, other liquid fertiliser will be applied via the irrigation. Top dressing will also be required to maintain acidic levels at the appropriate level. This is difficult to sustain since the plants will outgrow the pots in time.

Planting

Good preparation and well worked, weed free soil are important as is avoiding wet ground since this can give problems with roots and soil compaction later.

Always ensure pots are thoroughly wet and any light or dry ones should be immersed in water until wet prior to planting.

Remove plants from pot and check root system.

Do not tear root system.

Irrigation and Fertilisation

Blueberries cannot stand dehydration and do not like 'wet feet' either, hence the need for a good irrigation system.

Root system is poor in that roots are fine and there is no tap root for support so they depend on a good water supply.

Dehydrated plants seldom recover.

Fertiliser should be applied as advisor recommends bearing in mind any slow release fertiliser in substrate mix. It should be noted that plants are often lost in the first year due to burning from over fertilisation.

Plant Maintenance

Little maintenance is required provided they are fed and watered according to their needs.

Pruning of dead wood and trimming back vegetative buds will allow light penetration, which in turn increases photosynthesis and flower bud formation. Prune in moderation as too heavily pruned bushes will have a detrimental effect on fruit production.

General rule is to remove around one third of the wood. (Further guidance and pictures can be found in our grower information guide)