highbush blueberry

The amount and timing of watering for a highbush blueberry plant depends on the weather conditions and soil type. In most cases, it should be watered deeply once or twice a week in the spring and twice a month during the summer. It is important to provide enough water to keep the soil around the plants moist, but not saturated. During the hottest periods of the summer, increase the frequency of watering, particularly if your soil is sandy or well-drained. In cooler climates or during fall and winter, water the plants less often. Always check the soil with a finger or a moisture meter before watering. If the soil is damp to the touch, don’t water.

Highbush blueberry plants (Vaccinium corymbosum ‘Aurora’) thrive in full sun, meaning they need at least 8 hours of direct sunlight per day. The plants can also tolerate a small amount of shade; however, for optimal growth and fruit production, full sun is best. When grown in an area with too much shade, the plants will produce more foliage than fruit. Avoid planting in full shade for best results.

Highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Aurora') should be pruned twice a year, in late winter and early summer season. In late winter, pruning should be done by removing approximately 20-30% of the oldest canes and stems. This pruning can help encourage new growth and provide more air circulation within the plant, as well as allow more sunlight to reach the lower part of the bush. In early summer, remove any dead or diseased canes and stems and thin out any canes that are overcrowded. This will encourage the bush to grow healthier canes that will produce better fruit. You may also need to reduce shoots that are further down in the bush, as this can help get sunlight and air circulation higher up in the plant. In general, prune to keep the plant open and allow plenty of sunlight and good air flow throughout. Removing older, weaker canes and thinning overcrowded canes will help promote good fruit production, as well as help the plant look more attractive overall.