highbush blueberry

Highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Darrow') should be watered thoroughly each week during the growing season. In the spring, when temperatures are above freezing, water until the soil is moist up to a depth of 8-12 inches. Water gradually and deeply to encourage deep root growth. During the summer months when temperatures are consistently above 70°F, increase the frequency of irrigation to twice a week. In the fall, reduce the frequency of irrigation but ensure adequate soil moisture. Avoid over-watering to prevent root rot. In general, you should water the plant until the top 6-8 inches of the soil is moist. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill your plant.

Highbush blueberry plants prefer full sun and will thrive when they receive 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day during the growing season. If possible, plants should be planted in an area that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. For optimal health and fruit production, it’s best to give highbush blueberry plants at least 6 hours of direct sunlight throughout the year. During the hottest parts of summer, shade should be provided in the late afternoon.

Highbush blueberry plants (Vaccinium corymbosum 'Darrow') should be pruned annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. This pruning helps to increase air and light penetration into the interior of the plant, improve fruit quality, and reduce disease. Start by removing any dead, diseased, and broken limbs, then remove any crossing, rubbing, and small twiggy branches. You should also remove any low-vigor or non-fruiting branches from the plant. When done pruning, leave the plant with an open-center shape with well-spaced branches. In the following 2-3 years, more pruning should be done to maintain the shape and increase fruit production. Thin out the branches in order to increase the number of desired laterals. Remove 1-third to 1-half of the previous season’s growth, including the lateral tips 6-8 inches long. Rewarding crops of highbush blueberry are achievable with the proper pruning.