Blueberries are known for their many health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants and high in fiber and are a recommended part of a healthy diet. Growing them at home is an effective way of having plenty of fresh, delicious blueberries to eat all season long.
Once you decide what blueberries you want to plant, growing them is easy. Blueberry plants love sunlight and will require a full-sun location. Blueberries grow best in fairly acidic soil with a pH of around 4.5. In most cases your soil will need amending to achieve this. Pete moss and sulfur as well are acidic fertilizers may help get your soils pH to the desired level.
Blueberry plants have shallow root systems and like to be planted in loamy soil (approximately 4-7 percent organic matter) with good drainage. If you have clay soil in your area or poor drainage you may want to consider a raised garden bed or as an alternative you can hill up the plants.
Many blueberries are self pollinating but for the best fruit yields you should plant multiple bushes. Blueberry plants typically reach their fully productive stage when they get to be about 6 years old. For the first two years after planting it is recommended that you remove the blossoms to prevent fruiting, this promotes vigorous and strong root systems.
With a blueberry garden you can enjoy years and years of sweet, healthy, delicious blueberries fresh from your own home. Pick your blueberries when they become large firm and dark with a whitish hue to the skin. The darker and more ripe the fruit, the higher they are in antioxidants. Mega Blueberry
Sources for this blog include:
http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/1000/1422.html
http://howtogardenguide.com/2008/02/22/grow-blueberries/
