There are two main types of blueberry plants: Rabbiteye and Highbush.

Rabbiteye

Rabbiteye varieties are native to the southern United States and Highbush varieties are native to the Northern United States.  They are a beautiful addition to any home garden.  If left unpruned they can reach 10 – 12 feet tall.  You will need to plant two or more varieties for cross pollination.

Rabbiteye do better in drier, warmer temperatures but like the soil moisture maintained at a constant level. Plants bloom early enough to be damaged by frost. Fruit is usually smaller and sweeter than highbush varieties.

Highbush

Highbush do better in the higher elevations of Tennessee. Highbush does not like hot weather. It is best not to plant Highbush in the lower elevations without consistent watering. Highbush bloom later and are less likely to be damaged by frost. Fruit is larger and less sweet than Rabbiteye.

Selecting a site to plant

Selecting the correct site for your blueberry plants will help you have greater success. Once plants are established they are not difficult to maintain, but the first year is crucial in the success of the plant.

[us_iconbox icon=”fa-check” style=”simple” iconpos=”left” size=”24px” title=”It is best to start with at least a 2 year old plant for greater success.” title_size=”20px”][/us_iconbox]
[us_iconbox icon=”fa-check” style=”simple” iconpos=”left” size=”24px” title=”Blueberries need full sun.” title_size=”20px”][/us_iconbox]
[us_iconbox icon=”fa-check” style=”simple” iconpos=”left” size=”24px” title=”Acidic soil pH of 4.8 – 5.2″ title_size=”20px”][/us_iconbox]
[us_iconbox icon=”fa-check” style=”simple” iconpos=”left” size=”24px” title=”Select an elevated site or plant in a raised bed.” title_size=”20px”][/us_iconbox]
[us_iconbox icon=”fa-check” style=”simple” iconpos=”left” size=”24px” title=”Avoid frost pockets and ground that stays waterlogged.” title_size=”20px”][/us_iconbox]
[us_iconbox icon=”fa-check” style=”simple” iconpos=”left” size=”24px” title=”Mulch after planting to retain moisture.” title_size=”20px”][/us_iconbox]
[us_iconbox icon=”fa-check” style=”simple” iconpos=”left” size=”24px” title=”Add wet peat moss and compost at planting to help get your plants established.” title_size=”20px”][/us_iconbox]

Blueberries do not like to be over fertilized. Doing a soil sample is best before planting. Best time to fertilize is at bud break and at smaller amounts 6 and 12 weeks after. Use elemental sulfur or cottonseed meal to lower pH. It may take 3 years to reach correct pH for blueberries to flourish.