Blåbär

Blueberries

Everything You Need to Know About Blueberries

Blueberries are not only a beloved woodland berry – they are also excellent to grow in your own garden. With the right variety and the right soil, blueberry bushes are easy to care for, highly ornamental and very generous in yield. Here, we cover the best varieties, how to plant, care for and harvest blueberries – along with smart tips to ensure abundant crops year after year.

What are blueberries? Basic facts

Blueberries (Vaccinium) belong to the heath family and naturally thrive in acidic, humus-rich soils. There are several species, but in home gardens the most commonly grown are American highbush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum) and European wild blueberries (Vaccinium myrtillus).

Quick facts:

  • Soil pH: 4–5 (acidic soil)

  • Light: Full sun to partial shade

  • Watering: Moist but well-drained

  • Lifespan: A well-maintained bush can produce for 30–40 years

  • Nutrient needs: Low; avoid lime-rich fertilisers

Different types of blueberries

American blueberries (highbush blueberries)

The most common type available commercially, known for large, sweet berries and vigorous growth.

Advantages:

  • Large berries

  • Easy to grow

  • Tall bushes (1–2 metres)

  • Attractive autumn colour

Popular varieties:

  • ‘Bluecrop’ – very hardy, reliable and heavy-yielding

  • ‘Patriot’ – suitable for colder climates, large flavourful berries

  • ‘Northblue’ – compact habit, ideal for containers

  • ‘Goldtraube’ – classic variety with good yields and beautiful autumn foliage

European wild blueberries

These resemble wild forest blueberries in flavour and colour, but are more difficult to cultivate as they require very specific soil conditions.

Lowbush blueberries (Vaccinium angustifolium)

Sometimes referred to as “lowbush blueberries”.

Characteristics:

  • Extremely hardy

  • Compact (0.4–0.6 m)

  • Excellent flavour for jams and baking

  • Good ground cover

Planting blueberries – step by step

Choose the right location

Blueberries thrive in full sun – the more sun they receive, the better the harvest. They tolerate partial shade, but yields are usually lower.

Acidic soil is essential

This is the most important factor. Ordinary garden soil is not suitable.

Use:

  • Rhododendron soil

  • Peat mixed with bark compost

  • Natural compost from coniferous material

Avoid:

  • Manure

  • Wood ash

  • Lime

Planting depth and spacing

  • Dig a hole approx. 50–60 cm deep and wide

  • Spacing between plants: 1–1.5 metres

  • Plant slightly deeper than in the pot

  • Water thoroughly and mulch with bark or wood chips

Growing blueberries in containers

Perfect for small gardens or balconies.

Container tips:

  • Minimum 30–40 litres

  • Acidic soil

  • More frequent watering than in open ground

  • Mulch the soil surface with bark

Care – how to keep your plants healthy

Watering

Blueberries like moisture but dislike waterlogged soil. Water regularly, preferably with rainwater.

Feeding

Fertilise sparingly and only with fertilisers intended for acid-loving plants, such as rhododendron fertiliser.

Pruning

No pruning is needed during the first three years. After that, remove:

  • Old, woody branches

  • Inward-growing shoots

  • Thick branches close to the ground

The goal is to encourage new, vigorous shoots each year for optimal fruiting.

Flowering and pollination

Blueberries flower in May–June with small white or pink, bell-shaped flowers. The bushes are self-fertile, but planting two or more different varieties will significantly increase both yield and berry size.

Harvest and use

Harvest usually begins in July–August, depending on the variety. American blueberries often ripen over several weeks, providing a long harvesting season.

Use blueberries for:

  • Pies and baking

  • Breakfast bowls

  • Jams and juices

  • Freezing for winter use

Common problems – and how to solve them

Shrivelled berries or no fruit
→ Usually due to lack of water or soil pH being too high.

Poor growth
→ Soil not acidic enough or location too shady.

Leaves turning red in summer
→ Possible iron deficiency – apply fertiliser for acid-loving plants.

Author: Emma Vogiatzi
Fact-checked by: Erik Hoekstra
Last updated: 13 November 2025