Are you tired of spending a fortune on blueberries? Why not try growing your own? Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have the pleasure of enjoying freshly-picked fruit from your own garden. Here are some helpful tips to get you started on your blueberry planting journey:
1. Picky, picky, picky:
Before you start planting, do some research to find the blueberry variety that thrives best in your climate. Some types prefer humid weather, while others can withstand freezing conditions.
2. Consider the soil:
Blueberries love acidic soil, with a pH ranging from 4 to 5. If your soil isn’t ideal for berry cultivation, don’t worry. You can always opt for pot planting.
3. Plant them right:
Give your blueberries plenty of sunlight and nutrient-rich soil. If you’re planting them in the ground, choose a sunny spot and space the bushes about 5 feet apart. If you prefer pot planting, an 18-inch pot should do the trick. Remember to water them about 1 to 2 inches per week.
4. Keep them safe:
Protect your precious plants from bugs, birds, and other critters by surrounding them with bamboo sticks and covering them with a food-grade net.
5. Keep ’em coming:
Blueberry bushes can bear fruit for up to 20 years! To ensure their longevity, make sure to prune them regularly. Just keep in mind that pruned bushes won’t bear fruit in the year of pruning, so it’s a good idea to have multiple bushes and alternate pruning schedules.
6. Get the best:
Keep an eye out for buds in early spring. By July, the berries should be ripe and ready to pick. Wait for them to turn a rich blue hue before gently plucking them from the bush.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a never-ending supply of delicious blueberries right at your fingertips. Plus, growing blueberries can be a fun and rewarding project, especially if you have limited space. Share these insider tips with your friends on Facebook and start your own blueberry journey today!