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garden
Blueberry
Vaccinium ×atlanticum
Overview
One of only a handful of commercially important fruit crops native to North America, blueberries have been gathered by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. These acid-loving shrubs produce some of the most antioxidant-rich fruits in the world, with a complex sweet-tart flavor that varies by species and cultivar. Highbush, lowbush, and rabbiteye types offer options for nearly every climate.
Growing Conditions
Hardiness Zones5 — 8
Height126.47m
Spread1.3m
Growth HabitShrub
Pollinator Valuemoderate
Companion Planting & Soil
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Soil pH4 — 5.5
Soil TypeAcidic, well-drained, sandy soil rich in organic matter
Planting Calendar
When to sow, transplant, and harvest by growing zone.
| Zone | Action | Months | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold (1-2) | Transplant | May — Jun | Plant bare-root in spring after ground thaws; needs acidic soil pH 4.5-5.5 |
| Cool (3-4) | Transplant | Apr — May | Plant bare-root in early spring; amend soil with sulfur if pH > 5.5 |
| Moderate (5-7) | Transplant | Mar — Apr | Plant in early spring; mulch heavily with pine needles |
| Moderate (5-7) | Harvest | Jun — Aug | Harvest when berries are fully blue and come off easily |
| Moderate (5-7) | Prune | Feb — Mar | Prune during dormancy; remove oldest canes |
| Warm (8-9) | Transplant | Jan — Feb | Plant in winter dormancy; choose southern highbush varieties |
Uses
Culinary
- Fresh eating, baking, and preserves
- Frozen for year-round smoothies and desserts
- Dried as a snack or trail mix ingredient
Medicinal
- Exceptionally high in anthocyanins for brain health
- Supports urinary tract health similar to cranberry
- Anti-inflammatory properties may support heart health
Other Uses
- Beautiful ornamental shrub with fall color
- Wildlife food source for birds and mammals
- Lowbush types used as edible ground cover
