Blueberries

Blueberries fall into three types highbush, lowbush, and half-high. The most common, highbush, is a 6-foot shrub with many varieties bred for size, flavor, or cold tolerance. Lowbush types thrive in colder climates and form low, spreading ground cover. Half-high varieties are hybrids of highbush and lowbush, ideal for compact spaces and northern gardens. While blueberries are partially self-fertile, planting multiple varieties increases yield and extends harvest time.

Best Time: Early spring or late fall (Zones 6–9); spring only in Zones 5 and colder.

Avoid Planting: During summer heat or frozen winter ground.

Pollination: Plant at least two varieties for better pollination and fruit set.

Soil Requirements:

pH between 4.0–5.0 (acidic)

Rich in organic matter like peat moss, compost, or pine bark

Well-drained but moisture-retentive

Fertilizer Schedule

Test your soil with the HOSS Soil Sample Kit to ensure pH levels are between 4.0 and 5.0, which is ideal for blueberries.

If your soil is too alkaline, apply elemental sulfur before planting to lower the pH.

First Year

No fertilizer during the first growing season.

Second Year and Beyond – Spring Feeding

Apply ½ dose of a complete, acid-loving plant fertilizer like HOSS All-In-One 10-10-10 as buds begin to swell.

Use ½ oz. per plant in year two, gradually increasing to 8 oz. per plant by year six.

Spring Feeding – Second Dose

(Late Spring: 4 weeks after first dose)

Apply the second half of your All in One 10 10 10 around each plant using the same method as above.

Important Notes
Do not use nitrate-based fertilizers such as ammonium nitrate or calcium nitrate, these can damage blueberry roots.

Continue monitoring soil pH every 1–2 years and reapply elemental sulfur as needed to maintain acidic conditions.

When to Harvest: Berries turn fully blue and fall off easily when ripe (June–August depending on zone)

How to Harvest: Pick gently every 2–3 days during peak season

Storage: Refrigerate immediately or freeze for long-term use

Pruning Tips

First 3–4 Years: Minimal pruning; remove blossoms to establish roots.

Year 4+: Prune in late winter to remove old, low, or dead wood and encourage productive new growth