Blueberry - DeSoto (Rabbit Eye)

Directions for Planting and Care

Planting and caring for your Blueberry - DeSoto (Rabbit Eye) is an enjoyable and rewarding experience. With just a few simple steps, you'll be able to grow a healthy and productive plant:

Planting

Select the Right Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden. DeSoto blueberries thrive in full sun, which is necessary for optimal fruit production. Ideally, select a location with good air circulation to reduce the risk of disease.

Prepare the Soil: Blueberries prefer acidic, well-draining soil with a pH level of 4.5 to 5.5. If your soil is too alkaline, amend it with sulfur to lower the pH. You can also incorporate organic matter like peat moss to improve soil texture and water retention.

Dig a Proper Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and about the same depth. This allows the roots plenty of space to grow and establish themselves.

Plant the Blueberry Bush: Gently remove the blueberry from its pot, and place the root ball in the center of the hole. The top of the root system should be level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with soil and press down lightly to eliminate any air pockets.

Water Thoroughly: After planting, water the bush thoroughly to settle the soil and hydrate the roots. Keep the soil moist, especially during the first few weeks after planting.

Care

Watering: Blueberry plants require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Make sure to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply once a week if there hasn’t been sufficient rainfall.

Mulching: Apply a 4 to 6-inch layer of acidic mulch, such as pine bark or oak leaves, around the base of the plant. This helps to maintain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and improve the soil's acidity.

Pruning: For the first three years, minimal pruning is necessary. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches. After the third year, prune about one-quarter of the oldest canes annually to encourage new growth. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring when the plant is dormant.

Fertilization: Blueberries are sensitive to fertilization, so it's best to use a fertilizer specifically formulated for acid-loving plants. Apply fertilizer in early spring when new growth begins, and again in late summer to promote fruiting.

By following these simple planting and care steps, your Blueberry - DeSoto (Rabbit Eye) will thrive and reward you with delicious fruit for many years.