black pottery salad plate with a salad made of spinach, blueberries, and raspberries

How To Grow Blueberry Plants

Updated on Feb 15, 2024
By Baillie Blankenship

Blueberry plants are native to North America. Blueberries first became a cultivated crop in the early 1900s. Cultivation of blueberries increased dramatically after studies identified them as a superfood high in antioxidants, known as anthocyanins. They are so delicious in smoothies, pies, panckes, and even salads!


HISTORY

Blueberry plants are native to North America. Blueberries first became a cultivated crop in the early 1900s. Cultivation of blueberries increased dramatically after studies identified them as a superfood high in antioxidants, known as anthocyanins.

USES

  • Blueberries are used in baking, making jams and jellies, eaten fresh, and much more!

close up shot of blueberries


 

  • Choose a location in full sun with well-draining soil.
  • Test your soil pH. Blueberries prefer a pH of 4-5. 
  • Plant after the last spring frost.
  • Space plants 2-3 feet apart.
  • Top-dress with compost and mulch.
Blueberry plant in smalll cube of dirt lying flat on a table next to a vintage rulerBlueberry plant in smalll cube of dirt lying flat on a table next to a vintage ruler

 

  • Keep plants well-watered. 1-2 inches per week.
  • In the second year, prune bushes when the plants have gone dormant, after leaf drop. (Usually in mid to late winter).

PESTS/SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

  • Continue to prune each year to encourage healthy new growth.
Blueberry plant in a small blue and white pot on a blue backgroundBlueberry plant in a small blue and white pot on a blue background

 

  • Blueberries can be propagated through softwood cutting in the spring or hardwood cuttings in the dormant season.
  • Take 4-6 inch long cuttings using sterilized pruning shears.
  • Dip the bottom end in rooting hormone.
  • Plant into a pot with well drained potting soil.
  • Keep moist but not wet until the cutting has rooted.
Blueberry seedling lying flat on table next to an illegible  rulerBlueberry seedling lying flat on table next to an illegible  ruler