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TIPS FOR GROWING BLUEBERRIES
- Site and Soil Preparation:
 Because blueberries have a shallow root system, only the
top 6-12" of soil need to be prepared. If you have been successful growing azaleas
or rhododendrons, prepare the soil the same way. For maximum fruit production, choose
a well-drained area. Blueberries will not tolerate wet conditions, however, since
they are shallow rooted; it is possible to grow plants in normally wet areas if the
growing medium is well mounded. After the plant site has been selected, place a minimum
of 1/2 bushel of composted material on top. Peat moss is ideal; however, any good
compost that has been subject to decomposition, such as leaves, bark or sawdust will
suffice. Work mulch into the top 8" of soil within a 2' diameter for each plant.
Blueberry plants can be spaced an average of 3 to 6 feet
in rows; 3 foot spacing will give a high density planting and form a hedge quickly;
5 to 6 feet is the normal distance between plants. Blueberry plants may also be grouped,
separated as singles, or planted with almost any landscape configuration.
Commonly Used Statistics for
Commercial Planting
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5 by 10 feet=
870 plants per acre
4 by 10 feet= 1090 plants per acre
3 by 10 feet= 1450 plants per acre
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Place plants in the center of the prepared area and fan
out the roots in all directions. While holding the trunk upright, rake 3 to 4 inches
of soil mixture back over the roots and step on to pack. Wet the soil
sufficiently
as desired relative to conditions.
- Pollination and Production:
It is recommended that two or more varieties of blueberries be
planted together to assure higher yields and better quality fruit. For commercial
plantings, other specifications may be followed. Whereas cross-pollination
will help
increase production, the actual yield will also be partially dependent upon size
and vigor of the plant.
ORDERING INFORMATION
Finch Blueberry Nursery stocks Rabbiteye, Northern Highbush,
and Southern Highbush varieties. We also have special packages
available, selected
for plant hardiness specifically for your area by the experts at Finch Blueberry
Nursery. Read about the varieties available for your
Hardiness Zone.
You may place your order by using our order
form, or call 1-800-245-4662, Monday through Friday,
8 am to 5 pm, EST.
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BLUEBERRY PANCAKES
| 2 cups flour |
1/2 cup blueberries |
| 2 cups buttermilk |
3 eggs, separated |
| 1 tsp. salt |
3 Tbsp. melted butter |
| 1 tsp. soda |
2 Tbsp. brown sugar |
| 3/4 tsp. baking powder |
1 Tbsp. granulated sugar |
| Pour buttermilk into small mixing bowl. Add soda and stir. Set aside.
Sift flour, salt, baking powder, and brown sugar together. In large mixing bowl,
beat egg yolks. Add buttermilk mixture and melted butter. Add dry ingredients. Mix
until fairly smooth. Stir in blueberries, gently. Beat egg whites and add granulated
sugar gradually when peaks begin to form. When stiff, fold egg whites into other
mixture, gently. Bake on hot griddle. Serve topped with syrup. |
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