Call us: 0800 843 752Free shipping for orders $150 or over
Gift Vouchers

how to choose blueberry plants

Looking to start your own blueberry patch? Understanding how to choose blueberry plants is the first step to enjoying delicious, homegrown fruit. With a variety of blueberry types suited to New Zealand gardens, making the right choice can reward you with abundant harvests for years. Whether you're after a classic blue variety or something a little different, some key factors will help you select the best blueberry plants for your space and taste.

Dianella nigra plant with masses of blue berries.

Dianella nigra (New Zealand Blueberry)

5 from 2 customers

Dianella nigra, commonly known as the New Zealand Blueberry or Tūrutu, is a NZ native that features lush foliage and glossy berries that vary in colour from blue, white, to deep purple. They are held amidst the strap-like, glossy green leaves.

From $16.49

Suited to regions: All regions
Plant type: Flaxes
Height: 40 cm
Spread: 50 cm
Flowering time: Spring
Tolerances: Coastal, Hardy, Shade
Garden uses: Borders, Paths & Steps, Ponds
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Coastal, Frontyard, Modern, Native
Blueberry 'Pink Icing' plant with fruit growing in a pot.

Blueberry 'Pink Icing'

5 from 1 customers

Blueberry 'Pink Icing' is a compact ornamental blueberry valued for its striking pink new foliage, glossy evergreen leaves, and sweet berries. This low chill variety performs very well in New Zealand conditions and is ideal for small gardens, patios, and container growing.

From $31.95

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Berryfruit
Height: 90 cm
Spread: 90 cm
Flowering time: Spring, Summer
Garden uses: Borders, Containers, Living areas, Paths & Steps
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Mediterranean, Modern, Tropical
fertiliser-for-acid-loving-plants-
Fertiliser for acid loving plants

Fertiliser for acid loving plants provides targeted nutrition for plants that perform best in acidic soil conditions. It helps support healthy...

From$7.95
5-litre-plant-pots-
5 Litre Plant Pots

5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing larger shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and young trees. They provide generous root space to...

From$79.20
zamioculcas-black-knight-
Zamioculcas Black Knight (Zamioculcas Plant)

Zamioculcas Black Knight is a very popular indoor plant owing to its dark and showy foliage. It grows as a clump and produces upright fronds which...

From$41.33
A strong and studry planting spade.
Ace1 Planting Spade

The Ace 1 planting spade is a must for any gardener. This spade is designed so it can penetrate the ground easily without jarring the wrists in the...

From$225.86
half-litre-plant-pots-
0.5 Litre Plant Pots

0.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing young plants, herbs, seedlings, and smaller ornamentals. Their compact size makes them ideal...

From$23.04
70-windbreak-2
Shadecloth - 70% Shade (Shade Cloth For Plants)

This shade cloth for plants, which is also used as plant windbreaks, reduces light levels and windspeeds by 70%. Therefore, 30% of the wind or light...

From$499.80
15-litre-plant-pots-
1.5 Litre Plant Pots

1.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical choice for growing young shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other developing plants. They provide useful...

From$27.36
3-litre-plant-pots-
3.5 Litre Plant Pots

3.5 Litre Plant Pots are a versatile choice for growing shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other established plants. They provide generous root...

From$48.96
clianthus-puniceus-
Clianthus puniceus (Parrot Beak Plant)

Clianthus puniceus (Kakabeak) is a spectacular New Zealand native shrub renowned for its striking clusters of brilliant red, beak shaped flowers that...

From$44.09
Juncus effusus plants growing in water.
Juncus effusus (Soft Rush Plant)

Juncus effusus (Spiral Rush) is an eye catching rush valued for its distinctive twisting green stems, compact clumping habit, and strong...

From$16.49
10-litre-plant-pots-
10 Litre Thermoformed Plant Pots

These lightweight pots are a cost effective means for growing on plants. They feature a strong and broad rim, have been UV stabilised for NZ...

From$5.76
White flowers on a Cistus 'Snowmound' plant with green foliage.
Cistus 'Snowmound' (White Rock Rose Plant)

Cistus ‘Snowmound’ is a compact evergreen shrub that produces a breathtaking display of pure white flowers with golden-yellow centres from late...

From$24.77
White waterproof paper plant tags for sale.
Waterproof Paper Plant Tags

Waterproof Paper Plant Tags provide a practical way to label plants, trays, pots, and nursery stock while resisting moisture during everyday growing...

From$26.78
Moss pole for plants.
Moss Pole For Plants (Moss Pole For Plants)

These moss poles for plants are made from Coir Fibre (i.e., the husks of coconuts). They are an eco-friendly option to help plants grow healthier and...

From$6.90
plant-pots-
2.5 Litre Plant Pots

2.5 Litre Plant Pots are a practical option for growing shrubs, perennials, grasses, herbs, and other developing plants. They provide ample root...

From$37.44
native-plant-fertiliser-
Native Plant Fertiliser

Native Plant Fertiliser is specially formulated to support healthy growth in a wide range of NZ native plants. It provides balanced nutrition to...

From$16.95
indoor-plant-fertiliser-
Indoor Plant Fertiliser

All potted plants require indoor plant fertiliser. This is particularly important as many nurseries only put enough fertiliser in the pots to last...

From$16.95
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant) bright red foliage.
Sedum rubrotinctum (Jelly Bean Plant)

Sedum rubrotinctum, commonly known as Jelly Bean Plant or Pork and Beans Plant, is a compact, low-growing succulent reaching 15–20 cm tall and...

From$21.39
agave-americana-variegata--1
Agave americana 'Variegata' (Variegated Century Plant)

Agave americana 'Variegata' is a striking evergreen succulent valued for its bold architectural form and strongly variegated foliage. It forms a...

From$15.95
Plant watering bottle for watering a plant on a shelf.
Plant Watering Bottle

Plant Watering Bottles provide a simple and convenient way to deliver water directly to indoor plants, seedlings, cuttings, and small container...

From$55.13
indoor-plant-fertiliser-tablets-1
Indoor Plant Fertiliser Tablets

Indoor plants require feeding from the time you get them home as nurseries typically only put enough fertiliser in the pots to last 4-8 weeks after...

From$34.95
Blueberry 'Jersey' plant with blue berries.
Blueberry 'Jersey'

Blueberry 'Jersey' is a classic late season blueberry valued for its excellent flavour, reliability, and heavy cropping. This long established...

OUT OF STOCK
Blueberry 'Blueray' blue berries on a plant.
Blueberry 'Blueray'

Blueberry 'Blueray' is a mid season blueberry variety valued for its very large berries and rich sweet flavour. This productive plant performs well...

OUT OF STOCK
Blueberry 'Bluecrop' blue berries.
Blueberry 'Bluecrop'

Blueberry 'Bluecrop' is one of the most widely grown blueberry varieties, valued for its excellent flavour, large berries, and reliable heavy yields...

OUT OF STOCK
Blueberry 'Blast Variety' blue berries on a plant.
Blueberry 'Blast Variety'

Blueberry 'Blast Variety' is a high performing blueberry selection valued for its strong growth, reliable yields, and excellent fruit quality. This...

OUT OF STOCK
Blueberry 'Powder Blue' blue berries with lush, green foliage.
Blueberry 'Powder Blue'

Blueberry 'Powder Blue' is a late season blueberry variety valued for its sweet flavour, firm berries, and extended harvest period. This reliable...

OUT OF STOCK
Blueberry 'Burst' blue berries amidst lush, green-blue foliage.
Blueberry 'Burst'

Blueberry 'Burst' is a high performing blueberry variety valued for its strong growth, heavy yields, and excellent sweet flavour. This reliable plant...

OUT OF STOCK
Blueberry 'Duke' small blue berries on a table.
Blueberry 'Duke'

Blueberry 'Duke' is a very popular early season blueberry valued for its large firm berries and excellent sweet flavour. This reliable variety...

OUT OF STOCK
Blueberry 'Brightwell' shrub with masses of blue berries.
Blueberry 'Brightwell'

Blueberry 'Brightwell' is a popular rabbiteye blueberry valued for its strong growth, heavy yields, and reliable late season fruiting. This hardy...

OUT OF STOCK
Blueberry 'Berkeley' blue berries on a shrub.
Blueberry 'Berkeley'

Blueberry 'Berkeley' is a mid season blueberry valued for its very large berries and mild sweet flavour. This reliable variety performs well in New...

OUT OF STOCK
Dianella nigra (New Zealand Blueberry)

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Blueberry, Dianella, and Zamioculcas, or related Categories - Shadecloth & Windbreak, Acid Loving Plants, and Plant pots.

Search how to choose blueberry plants

Consider Your Climate and Variety

Blueberries come in a range of varieties, each suited to different climates and growing conditions. In New Zealand, you’ll find Northern Highbush, Southern Highbush, and Rabbiteye blueberries, each with unique benefits. For regions with warmer climates, Rabbiteye types like Blueberry 'Powder Blue' and Blueberry 'Brightwell' are ideal due to their heat and drought tolerance. If you live in a coastal or cooler area, consider Southern Highbush varieties such as Blueberry 'Misty', as they tend to flower and fruit early, extending your harvest.

Pollination and Yield

Understanding how to choose blueberry plants involves looking beyond a single bush. Many blueberry plants produce larger and more consistent crops when cross-pollinated. Pairing two or more compatible varieties ensures better fruit set. For instance, combining Blueberry 'Powder Blue' with Blueberry 'Brightwell' is an excellent strategy for Rabbiteye blueberries. For those after a unique appearance and flavour, Blueberry 'Pink Icing' adds ornamental beauty along with bountiful berries.

Space, Size and Location

Before planting, think about how much space you have. Blueberries generally need well-drained, acidic soil and full sun. Most varieties, including Blueberry 'Misty', grow well in both garden beds and large containers, making them suitable for urban and rural settings. Be sure to allow enough room for mature plants—most need at least one metre between bushes to flourish.

Unique Alternatives and Native Options

If you’re looking for native alternatives or want to diversify your edible garden, explore Dianella nigra (New Zealand Blueberry). While not a true blueberry, this hardy native offers attractive blue berries and can thrive in a wide range of conditions, bringing year-round interest to your garden.

Final Thoughts on How to Choose Blueberry Plants

Selecting the best blueberry plants goes beyond simply picking your favourite flavour. Consider climate, pollination partners, and your garden space to ensure your new blueberry bushes thrive. Whether you opt for tried-and-true varieties or add a splash of colour with Blueberry 'Pink Icing', following these steps will set you on the path to sweet, homegrown blueberries for years to come.

Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

Illustration of plant leaves.
Lomandra Lime Tuff and Cereus tetragonus may be the stars of the show, but unsung heroes like Pseudopanax 'Gold Finger', Apricot Sundrop, and Strelitzia nicolai deserve a moment in the sun.
–The Plant Company

Explore Garden Inspiration

Sign up to receive a free $10 Voucher You won’t be bombarded with emails, just titbits of quality information from time to time Sign up
Free shipping on orders over $150!

Join our community of happy customers.

4.8

466 Google reviews