How to Grow Vaccinium (Blueberry)

Where to plant Vaccinium

Vaccinium are best planted in a moist but well-drained soil of sand or loam within an acidic PH balance. They are best positioned in a sheltered area of sun or partial shade. Vaccinium are well suited to borders and beds within cottage and informal garden settings. They can also be grown in containers.

Find out more about soil types and how to determine your soil type by clicking here

How to plant Vaccinium

Plant deep in a moist but well-draining acidic soil. If you do not have acidic soil, then you can grow the plant in a container instead. Many Vaccinium are self-pollinating, however it is best to grow at least two, as cross-pollinated plants produce larger fruit.

How to care for Vaccinium

During dry spells, water with rainwater. If growing in containers, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and don’t allow the soil to dry out between watering. Give some winter protection in containers. Pruning is not required in the first two years, just remove any crossing branches. Once the plant is mature, prune out any diseased, damaged, dying or weak stems, any twiggy growth at the end of branches that fruited last year and up to a quarter of the oldest and thick stems at the base of the plant.

How to propagate Vaccinium

It is possible to propagate Vaccinium by softwood cuttings in late spring of semi-ripe cuttings in early summer.

You can find more information on how to propagate plants by clicking here