Blueberry Planting in Soil
- There are many types of blueberry plants available, and choosing the right one will increase your success when planting blueberries in soil. Each has been cultivated to suit the growing conditions of the areas in which they are sold. For example, blueberry plants in Michigan will be different than those available in Florida. This is because blueberries cultivated for warmer climates will not survive well in cooler climates, and vice versa. Beyond the types of blueberry plants chosen, blueberry planting in soil is much the same everywhere.
- Blueberry bushes can grow to be up to 15 feet in height and 10 feet in diameter, so site selection is extremely important both to provide ample growing room and enough sun to thrive. Plant blueberry bushes in a location that will provide direct sun for at least eight hours a day. The location must also be at least 20 feet away from buildings and the roots of trees, except for pine trees. If planting a hedgerow, allow 3 to 5 feet of room between each plant.
- Blueberries require acidic soil that has been enriched with organic material such as peat moss. If soil does not have pH levels of 4.0 to 4.5, soil can be acidified by adding a small amount of granulated sulfur to the soil several months before planting. Fertilizers also lower the pH of soil, so it is a good idea to have your soil tested at a county or state university extension office to determine how much, if any, acidification is needed. If an extension office is not available, soil pH testers are simple to use and can be purchased at local garden centers.
- Besides the right soil and plenty of sun, blueberries need well-drained soil and adequate water. Planting blueberries on raised beds allows water to drain well and prevents root rot, particularly during a rainy season. Blueberry plants need about 40 inches of water annually to thrive, which is generally provided by rain. If rainfall is low, supplemental irrigation may be required, especially during the fruit-bearing season, which is late spring to early summer. Fertilize lightly, as over-fertilization can kill blueberries easily.
- The best time to plant blueberries in the soil is from mid-December to mid-February. Using starter plants that have been grown in containers is recommended. When planting, break up the root ball slightly and plant with about 1/4-inch of peat moss in the bottom of the planting hole; mulch well. Finally, prune the newly planted bush by leaving the strongest, tallest cane and removing the twiggy undergrowth at the base of the plant.
