Blueberries hanging from bush
Blueberries can be easily grown by most gardeners throughout the United States and parts of southern Canada. Blueberries come in many varieties that have evolved from high-bush, low-bush or rabbiteye blueberries. Plants can grow in warm or cool temperatures. For successful berry production, two or more bushes should be planted, and adequate nutrients must be supplied. Does this Spark an idea?
Fertilizers
Blueberry plants need very acidic soil to thrive. Soil's pH levels should be between 4.5 and 5.1. Soils with higher levels should be amended by adding ammonium sulfate. According to Purdue University, blueberries will respond best to nitrogen in fertilizers, but it should not be in nitrate form. Nitrogen should be in the form of urea or ammonium sulfate. Phosphorus and potassium will be rarely needed for fertilizing blueberries.
Fertilizers should be applied by hand for young plants, but broadcast fertilizers work for older plants. Fertilize in early spring before new foliage growth begins, and on newly planted blueberry bushes fertilize about one month after planting.
Soil Testing
Soil testing should be done before adding any amendments to the soil. Most universities have soil testing labs where gardeners can pay to have their soil tested. To collect soil samples, rake away the top layer of debris and thatch from the gardening area. Soil probes or spades can be used to extract 6 to 8 inches of core samples. Samples should be placed in clean buckets or boxes. The soil testing lab will normally send instructions on prepare the sample, and where to send it for testing. Soil testing can be done at any time during the year, but spring or fall testing offers better results. Testing the soil in the fall can also give gardeners adequate time to amend the soil if needed.
Compost
For gardeners who do not use fertilizers, compost can be made at home to supply blueberries the needed nutrients. Most compost mixes have equal amounts of green and brown matter. These mixes have both nitrogen and carbon in them, and offer many nutrients. To create compost richer in nitrogen than carbon, more green matter and less brown matter can be added. Compost can be mixed with the soil the blueberries grow in, and this organic method reduces household waste.
Mulch
Mulch placed around the plants helps to regulate soil moisture and temperature. If using mulch, more nitrogen may be needed to balance the decomposition of the organic matter. Home gardeners can use wood chips or old sawdust for mulching.
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