Blueberry Day

A year and a half ago, we planted twenty-five blueberry bushes on our developing homestead. On June 26, 2017, we picked our first batch of blueberries. We gave our five and two year olds little buckets to collect the ripe berries in, but would you believe it, not a single blueberry ever made it to the house. Not even sure any even made it to the bottom of their buckets. Exactly one year late, on June 26, 2018, those blueberries were ready for the picking again. We went out as a family to gather the ripe ones and I was pleasantly surprised a handful made it back to the house. It either had something to do with our bushes producing more this year, or the quick moving southern storm that suddenly came upon us. We had to run inside before we could be “sucked up” as my now three y3ear old put it. Now June 26th has unintentionally become our family’s Blueberry Day.

I have received several questions from customers and friends on how I care for my blueberry bushes and I want to share a few things I do to get our healthy producing crop.

1) Amend Soil – Use compost to bring nutrients to the soil and acidifiers such as pine mulch or pine needles to create a correct pH balance. A great harvest starts with great soil.

2) Have consistent irrigation - It is sometimes believed that bushes or trees don’t need to be watered and people cater to the water needs of their flowers or gardens. Blueberry bushes need some refreshment, too.

3) Fertilize – It is best to fertilize your blueberry bushes in early spring and midsummer. Be sure to look for fertilizers that contain ammonium sulfate such as Holly Tone.

I believe you get out of life what you put into it, and I believe that also applies to how you care for plants, including your blueberries. If you show them some TLC, you can be sure they will return the love and give you an abundant and delicious harvest. Happy picking!

If you need some extra advice or would like to put the care of your plants in a professional’s hands, give us a call or text at 423-240-2748 or send an email to info@greenstreetlandscapecompany.com. We provide landscaping services in Chattanooga, TN and it’s surrounding areas. You can also click the logo below to access our website for additional information. We would love to hear from you!