Southern Living® Downhome Harvest® Hello Darlin® Blueberry Shrub

1. Planting: Plant or repot within 4 weeks of arrival. Blueberries require acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5, so soil testing before planting is essential. Plants will not thrive outside this range. If native soil pH is higher than 5.5, container growing is recommended, as soil pH is easier to control. Choose a sun to part sun location with well-draining soil. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and equal in depth. Place the plant so the crown is level with the soil surface, then backfill with a mix of native soil and peat moss. Spread a layer of mulch extending about 3 feet around the plant to conserve moisture, insulate roots, and suppress weeds.

2. Watering: Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots. During the first growing season, keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Once established, the shrub will tolerate some drought, though regular watering during dry spells will improve berry size and overall production.

3. Pruning: Blueberries produce fruit on one-year-old wood. In late winter or early spring, remove any dead or damaged branches, along with crowded or crossing stems to improve airflow. Up to one-third of the tallest stems may also be pruned right after harvest to encourage vigorous, productive growth.

4. Fertilizing: In early spring, apply an acidic fertilizer formulated specifically for blueberries, such as Espoma Holly-tone®, following package instructions carefully. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nutrients can damage the plant.