highbush blueberry

Highbush blueberry plants should be watered at least once a week, ensuring that 1-2 inches of water is provided. Water should be applied at the base of the plants in order to avoid splashing and soil compaction. During the growing season – typically May to August – it is best to water the plants deeply and slowly to encourage deep root growth. From September to April, water should be applied more sparingly – about once every 2 weeks – to avoid root rot and winter damage. It is important to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy, as excessive amounts of water can drown the plant's roots and cause problems. In hot and dry weather, plants may require additional watering.

Highbush blueberry requires 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day for optimum growth and production. Fruiting occurs when the bush receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight on a daily basis. If given too much direct sunlight, the fruits may become too small and anything below 6 hours can cause stunted growth. The best time to provide your highbush blueberry with the proper amount of direct sunlight is between the hours of 10am and 6pm.

Highbush blueberries are generally recommended to be pruned annually in late winter or early spring, before the leaves emerge. Pruning should be done when the plant is dormant and new growth has not started yet. Pruning of highbush blueberry plants should include removal of dead, damaged, and crossing branches, as well as thinning of the branches to allow for good air circulation and light penetration. Proper thinning will also allow for better development of the fruiting wood and overall health and vigor of the plant. Remove 1/4 to 1/3 of the old wood, and remove canes that are more than 5 years old and weak, thin-wooded canes. Finally, cutting back the new canopy will help to improve next season's harvest.