Blueberry bushes not only provide fresh fruit but also can be used as a source of fall color in a backyard planting. Blueberries are relatively easy to grow, provide about eight quarts of berries per bush at maturity, and the fruits are versatile and high in vitamin C.

Blueberry plants are shallow rooted and require soils that hold moisture well, but are also well-drained. Dry, sandy soils and heavy wet soils can be improved by adding a source of organic matter such as peat moss, well-rotted manure, compost, aged sawdust, or leafmold. Blueberries grow best in soils with a pH range of 4.6 to 4.8 but should do well in soils with a pH ranging from 4.0 to 5.2.

Soils should be prepared, and all preparations should be completed two weeks ahead of planting. Rows can be rototilled, or individual holes (two feet across by two feet deep) can be dug as early in the spring as possible. A mixture of equal parts of loam, sand, and organic matter should be placed in the holes before planting.

Varieties

There are several blueberry varieties that are suitable for Massachusetts. Especially cold areas, like regions of Berkshire, Franklin and Hampshire counties, should not be planted to the earliest or latest-ripening varieties. Midseason varieties are more suited to these areas. Purchase two-year-old plants from a reputable nursery. Plants this size are easy to handle, become established quickly and bear fruit within a year or two after planting. Recommended blueberry varieties include:

Other varieties that may be worth growing on a trial basis only are Elizabeth, Elliott, Northland, and Patriot. For adequate cross-pollination be sure to plant at least two varieties that overlap in time of bloom.

When To Plant

Spring is the best time to plant blueberries. The roots of dormant, bare-root plants should be soaked in water for about an hour before planting.

Spacing & Depth

Blueberry bushes should be planted in full sunlight for maximum fruit production. Set out plants as early in the spring as possible. Plant bushes one to two inches deeper in the soil than they were in the nursery, six to eight feet apart, in rows spaced eight to ten feet apart. After plants have been set in the holes, fill the holes three-fourths full with soil mixture (see "soil preparation"), and then flood the hole. After the water has drained, fill in the holes with soil and tamp it down.

Blueberry Collection 12-18"

Bluecrop Blueberry 18-24"