Blueberry, Jersey

Tree Care:

Planting:
- Choose a sunny spot with well-draining, acidic soil (pH 4.5 to 5.5).
- Space bushes 4-5 feet apart in rows 8-10 feet apart.
- Plant at the same depth as in the nursery.

Watering:
- Keep soil consistently moist, especially during the growing season.
- Use soaker hoses or drip irrigation to water at the base.
- Avoid overhead watering.

Fertilizing:
- Apply acidic, slow-release fertilizer in spring before new growth.
- Repeat in late spring or early summer.
- Mulch with pine bark or straw for soil acidity.

Pruning:
- Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or crowded branches.
- Thin the bush for better airflow and sunlight.

Mulching:
- Add 2-4 inches of organic mulch for moisture, temperature, and weed control.

Pest and Disease Control:
- Monitor for pests and diseases.
- Apply controls when needed.
- Keep the area clean.

Harvesting:
- Pick ripe, deep blue berries gently, avoiding bruising.

Winter Care:
- Protect from cold with mulch.
- Late winter pruning for shape and damage removal.

Tree Description:

Size and Shape:
- Small to medium-sized with a rounded, bushy shape.

Leaves:
- Oval and glossy green leaves, turning colorful in the fall.

Flowers:
- Small, bell-shaped, white to pinkish flowers in spring.

Fruit:
- Medium-sized, sweet blueberries for fresh eating and culinary use.

Hardiness:
- Suitable for USDA hardiness zones 4 to 7.

Cultural Care:
- Plant in well-draining, acidic soil in a sunny spot.
- Maintain soil moisture and pH.
- Prune for shape and health.
- Apply acidic, slow-release fertilizer.
- Mulch for moisture and weed control.
- Watch for pests and diseases.

Landscape Use:
- Ideal for gardens and landscapes, offering both ornamental beauty and delicious blueberry harvests.