Blueberry

Best Blueberry Bushes In NZ!

Growing blueberry plants in your garden delivers a vast range of benefits:

• Reduced food waste.
• Lower grocery costs.
• Fewer food miles and less plastic packaging, decreasing your carbon footprint.
• Convenience.
• Children can learn the plants and become more involved with nature.
• These plants will bring you pleasure for many years to come.

We have the right blueberry plant for your space. Our fruiting plants have been selected to thrive in New Zealand’s climate, and we stock only the highest quality plants, sourcing them from NZ’s leading nurseries. Each plant is packed and transported with extreme care, ensuring it arrives to you in the same condition it was in when it left the nursery. If you are wanting to buy blueberry bushes, shop with confidence from the best in the industry.

Blueberry Plant Questions

1. What month is best to plant blueberry bushes?

The optimal time to plant blueberries is anytime during autumn, winter, and spring. This is when the soil is still cool and moist, which will help the roots to establish themselves before the heat of summer arrives. You can still plant them in summer as long as they can be watered regularly.

2. What are the best blueberries to plant in New Zealand?

The best blueberries to plant in New Zealand depend on your climate and personal preferences. However, some of the most popular and successful varieties include:

• Southern highbush blueberries are the most common type of blueberry grown in New Zealand. They are well-suited to the climate and produce large, sweet berries. Popular varieties include 'O'Neal', 'Sharpe Blue', and 'Jewel'.
• Northern highbush blueberries are less common, but they can be grown in cooler climates. They produce smaller berries but they are just as sweet. Popular include 'Blueray', 'Earliblue', and 'Patriot'.
• Rabbiteye blueberries are the most heat-tolerant type of the blueberry varieties. They are well-suited to warmer climates and produce large, sweet berries. Popular rabbiteye varieties include 'Brightwell', 'Tifblue', and 'Powderblue'.

3. Which blueberry plant is easiest to grow?

The easiest blueberry plant to grow is the southern highbush blueberry. They are well-suited to a wide range of climates, are relatively low-maintenance, and produce large, sweet berries. Some popular southern highbush blueberry varieties include:

• 'O'Neal'
• 'Sharpe Blue'
• 'Jewel'
• 'Brightwell'
• 'Tifblue'
• 'Powderblue'

4. Do you need three blueberry plants?

You do not need three blueberry plants, but it is recommended to plant at least two different varieties to ensure good fruit production. Blueberries are self-pollinating, but they produce more fruit when cross-pollinated by another variety. Also, by planting more than one variety you will extend your fruiting season.

5. Where is the best place to plant blueberries?

The best place to plant blueberries is in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Choose a spot that gets at least six hours of sunlight per day. They prefer acidic soil, so you may need to include peat moss, compost, or acid fertiliser into the soil during planting. Make sure the site is protected from wind as this can not only break stems but also reduce the yield.

6. Where are Blueberries native to?

Blueberries are native to North America. They are found in the wild from Mexico all the way up to the Arctic plains. The most common types of blueberries in North America are highbush blueberries and lowbush blueberries. Highbush blueberries are the larger, more cultivated variety, while lowbush blueberries are the smaller, wild variety.

7. How many blueberries do you get from one plant?

The number of blueberries you get from one plant can vary depending on the variety of blueberry plant, the age of the plant, the growing conditions, and the climate. However, on average, a highbush blueberry plant can produce 2 to 4 kilograms per year. A lowbush blueberry plant can produce 0.5 to 1 kilogram.

8. What is the difference between a highbush blueberry and a lowbush?

Key differences between Highbush and Lowbush Blueberry plants are:

• Size: Highbush blueberries are significantly taller and wider than lowbush blueberries.
• Chilling requirement: Highbush blueberries require more chilling hours (cold winter temperatures) than lowbush blueberries. This means they are better suited to colder climates.
• Fruit size: Highbush blueberries are larger than lowbush blueberries.
• Flavour: Highbush blueberries have a milder, sweeter flavour than lowbush blueberries, which have a more tart, sweet flavour.
• Yield: Highbush blueberries generally produce higher yields than lowbush blueberries.
• Cultivation: Highbush blueberries are widely cultivated for commercial production, while lowbush blueberries are primarily wild-harvested.

9. What is the fastest growing blueberry plant?

The fastest-growing blueberry variety is the Reka Blueberry. It is a vigorous, fast-growing variety that adapts well to a wide range of Northern climates and soil types. It can reach a height of 6-8 feet (2-3 m) and the same a width. Blueberries from this variety are large, sweet, and of heavy yield. The plants are also relatively disease resistant.

Some other fast-growing blueberry varieties include:

• Brightwell: This variety is known for its large, flavourful berries and heavy yield. It is also relatively disease resistant.
• Blueray: This variety is known for its early ripening and heavy yield. It is also relatively disease resistant.
• Sunshine Blue: This variety is known for its excellent flavour and long ripening season. It is also relatively disease resistant.
• Northblue: This variety is known for its hardiness and ability to thrive in cold climates. It is also relatively disease resistant.

Please note that the fastest-growing blueberry plant for you will depend on your specific climate and growing conditions.

10. What is the best fertilizer for blueberries NZ?

The best fertilizer is The Plant Company’s fruiting plant fertilizer. It has been specifically formulated to feed the plants continuously with everything need and without being wasteful to the environment or of your money!

https://www.theplantcompany.co.nz/shop/product/fertiliser/fruiting-plant-fertiliser

11. Do blueberries need frost protection NZ?

While blueberries are generally considered to be cold-hardy plants, they can be damaged by frost, especially during the flowering and fruiting stages. This is because frost can damage the delicate blossoms and young fruits, reducing the yield of berries. Young plants can also be vulnerable to frost. The Plant Company recommends using frost cloth or a putting a blanket over plants if you are at all worried.

12. How do you make soil acidic for blueberries NZ?

Blueberries thrive in acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. If your soil is alkaline or neutral, you can lower the pH by adding fertiliser specifically for acid loving plants. This will achieve the desired outcome faster than most other means.

https://www.theplantcompany.co.nz/shop/product/fertiliser/fertiliser-for-acid-loving-plants

12. Are coffee grounds good for blueberries?

Coffee grounds can be beneficial for blueberries in several ways:

1. Soil Acidifying: Coffee grounds are slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.0 and 6.0. This makes them a suitable addition to soil for acid-loving plants like blueberries, which prefer a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5.
2. Improving Soil Structure: Coffee grounds have a porous structure that can enhance soil aeration and water drainage. This is particularly beneficial for blueberries, which require well-drained soil to prevent root rot and promote healthy root development.
3. Providing Nutrients: Coffee grounds contain small amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, essential nutrients for plant growth. While not a substitute for regular fertilizer, coffee grounds can contribute to nutrient availability in the soil.
4. Attracting Worms: Coffee grounds can feed the soil biology, which helps to improve soil structure, aeration, and nutrient cycling.
5. Repelling Pests: Some studies suggest that coffee grounds may repel certain pests, such as slugs and snails, which can damage blueberry plants. However, more research is needed to confirm this effect.

13. What is good to put around blueberry bushes?

There are several beneficial materials you can place around blueberry bushes to enhance their growth and protect them from potential harm:

1. Mulch: Organic mulches like shredded bark, wood chips, or compost help suppress weeds, conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and improve soil structure. Apply a layer of mulch around blueberry bushes, leaving a few inches of space between the mulch and the plant stem to prevent moisture buildup against the stem.
2. Acidifying Amendments: Blueberries thrive in acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. If your soil is alkaline or neutral, incorporate acidic amendments like elemental sulfur based fertiliser.
3. Coffee Grounds: Coffee grounds offer multiple benefits for blueberries, including soil acidification, improved soil structure, nutrient enhancement, and potential pest repellent properties. Apply coffee grounds directly to the soil around blueberry plants, mixing them gently into the top few cm.
4. Drip Irrigation: Drip irrigation is an efficient and water-saving method for watering blueberry plants.
5. Protective Netting: If birds are a problem in your area, consider installing protective netting around your blueberry bushes to prevent them from damaging the berries.
6. Winter Protection (Cold Climates): In colder climates, blueberry bushes may require winter protection to withstand harsh temperatures. Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants and consider using frost cloth.

14. What not to plant next to blueberries?

Avoiding certain plants near blueberries is crucial for their optimal growth and health. Here are some plants that should not be planted alongside blueberries:

1. Plants such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and potatoes, have different soil pH requirements than blueberries. They prefer alkaline or neutral soil conditions, while blueberries thrive in acidic soil. Planting these plants together can create an imbalance in soil pH, hindering the growth of one of the other.
2. Other Acid-Intolerant Plants: Avoid planting acid-intolerant plants, such as beans, asparagus, and corn, near blueberries. These plants prefer alkaline or neutral soil conditions and may not grow well in the acidic environment that blueberries require.

15. What are some unique facts about blueberries?

Blueberries are not only delicious and nutritious, but they also boast some fascinating facts that make them truly unique:

1. Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give them their distinctive blue colour. These antioxidants are known to protect cells from damage, reduce inflammation, and potentially lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
2. Studies have shown that blueberries can enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and protect against age-related cognitive decline. Their high concentration of antioxidants and flavonoids may contribute to these benefits.
3. Blueberries are incredibly versatile ingredients, adding a burst of sweetness and tartness to various dishes. They can be enjoyed fresh, frozen, or cooked into pies, muffins, jams, smoothies, and yogurt parfaits.
4. Blueberries have a long and rich history, with fossil records dating back to over 18 million years ago. They were once considered a sacred food by Native American tribes, who used them for medicinal and culinary purposes.
5. Blueberries are cultivated worldwide, with the United States, Canada, Chile, Argentina, and Poland being major producers. They are a popular choice among consumers for their flavour, health benefits, and convenience.
6. Blueberries are a rich source of nutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, fibre, and potassium. They are low in calories and fat, making them a healthy snack or addition to meals.
7. Blueberries have been associated with various symbols and folklore throughout history. They represent wisdom, protection, and good luck in some cultures, and their blue colour often symbolizes tranquillity and peace.
8. Blueberries are relatively easy to cultivate with minimal environmental impact. They require less fertilizer and pesticide use compared to other fruit crops, making them a more sustainable choice.
9. Blueberries contain a wide range of bioactive compounds, including anthocyanins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. These compounds are believed to contribute to the berries' many health benefits.
10. Blueberries offer a unique sensory experience, with their plump texture, sweet-tart flavour, and refreshing aroma. They are a true delight for the taste buds and a reminder of nature's bounty.

16. What are the top 3 benefits of blueberries?

Blueberries are known for their numerous health benefits, but here are the top three:

1. Rich in Antioxidants: Blueberries are a powerhouse of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which give them their distinctive blue colour. These antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and potentially lowering the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.
2. Cognitive Enhancement: Studies have shown that blueberries can enhance cognitive function, improve memory, and protect against age-related cognitive decline. Their high concentration of antioxidants and flavonoids may contribute to these benefits by protecting brain cells from damage and enhancing blood flow to the brain.
3. Promotes Urinary Tract Health: Blueberries contain compounds that can help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). These compounds, such as proanthocyanidins, can prevent bacteria from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract, making it more difficult for infections to develop.