Skip the snafus and enjoy growing blueberry bushes.
May we presentdrumroll pleaseblueberries, which deliver spring flowers, summer fruit, andfall foliage.
Here’s what it’s crucial that you know aboutgrowing blueberries.
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Rabbiteye is easier to work with than Southern highbush and can even take the heat of northern Florida.
Plant them with the crown about 12 inch above ground.
Mulch but don’t cultivate.
Blueberries have delicate roots near the surface of the soil.
Mistakes to Avoid
To get the most success from your blueberries, avoid these common gardening errors.
Planting One Selection
While blueberries can self-pollinate, don’t plant just one selection.
Even if you’re tight on space, two bushes will give you a happier bounty come harvest time.
Not Enough Light
Don’t plant them in the shade.
The berries might not be sweet.
Go for full-on sun.
They need at least six hours of full sun per day.
After that, fertilize once per year in early spring with a slow-release, acid-forming, complete fertilizer."
Overhead Watering
Overhead irrigation can lead to mildewed leaves and gray mold on the fruit.
After that, they like moist soil but hate standing in water.
(Who doesn’t?)
Also watch out for “mummyberry” fungus, which makes the fruit shrivel.
Control it with a fungicide and always remove and trash any shriveled fruit to prevent spread.
Now you’re ready.
Go play some blues in your garden.
