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Planting Blueberries Last Updated: 07/11/2011 |
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Blueberries and other vaccinnium plants can be successfully grown in the open garden, containers or raised beds where soil suitable for other ericaceous plants such as Rhododendrons, Azaleas and Heathers can be provided. Optimum soil acidity should be between pH 4.5 and 5.5, however they will tolerate soil around pH6 where plenty of organic matter such as fine pine chippings or peat has been incorporated. Blueberries will provide the best flavoured fruit and the brightest autumn colour when positioned in full sun. They are tolerant of wind, but in extremely exposed conditions some shelter is advantageous. Cold conditions down to -12C for short periods are acceptable for most varieties. The root systems of container grown plants, however, benefit from some form of protection in winter, such as fleece, straw or hessian sacking. In all situations, organic matter such as well rotted pine chips, peat or leaf mould helps improve soil texture, especially that of heavy clay or very light sandy soil, it provides nutrients and maintains acidity. Organic matter based on animal waste is unsuitable as it can scorch roots and cause plant death. Open Garden Allow 1.5m diameter space around each highbush plant, or .75m for half high varieties. Excavate over the full diameter down to 30cm (1ft), and mix organic matter with the existing soil. Before planting, ensure soil is moist. Remove plant from its pot and place in the ground so that the final depth of the plant after firming is no higher than the level of the soil. Water well. Container Growing Your plants will normally have arrived in 2 litre pots and can be gradually moved up in stages over the years until they reach ½ beer barrel size containers (24 inches or 60cm). Any container should have adequate drainage and preferably be raised off the ground slightly to allow water to drain away. Plant your blueberry in ericaceous compost or peat, but build in 50% bark chippings or other coarse organic material. The size of each piece should be no more than 2cm across. Avoid material which has been treated for decorative use. Water retaining gel sachets can be added to reduce the need for frequent watering in the summer. A dressing of pine bark mulch to 2 inches will reduce watering further. Water well after planting.
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