Blueberry - Jewel (Southern Highbush)

Directions for Planting and Care

Planting and caring for your Blueberry - Jewel (Southern Highbush) is simple and rewarding, allowing you to enjoy a bountiful harvest with minimal effort.

Planting

Select the Right Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden with plenty of direct sunlight. Jewel blueberries thrive in full sun, which helps them produce abundant, high-quality fruit.

Prepare the Soil: Jewel blueberries prefer acidic, well-draining soil with a pH level between 4.5 and 5.5. Amend the soil with organic matter like compost to improve soil structure and provide additional nutrients.

Dig a Proper Hole: Dig a hole that is at least twice as wide and the same depth as the root ball. This gives the roots ample space to establish and spread out.

Plant the Blueberry: Gently remove the blueberry from its pot and place it in the center of the hole. Backfill with the surrounding soil, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Tamp the soil lightly to remove air pockets and stabilize the plant.

Water Thoroughly: After planting, water the blueberry bush generously to settle the soil and help the roots adapt to their new environment.

Care

Regular Watering: Water your Jewel blueberry regularly, especially during dry periods. Blueberries need consistent moisture, but be careful not to overwater as they are susceptible to waterlogging.

Mulching: Apply a 4-6 inch layer of mulch around the base of the plant in spring and fall. Use acid mulch like pine bark or oak leaves to maintain soil moisture and reduce weed growth. Make sure to pull mulch a couple of inches away from the trunk for proper air circulation.

Pruning: Prune your Jewel blueberry bush when it is 3 years old. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches and trim back any leggy growth to encourage the plant to bush up. For established plants, pruning one-quarter of the oldest canes annually encourages new growth and improves fruit production. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, ideally after the harvest.

Fertilization: Use a balanced, acid-loving fertilizer in early spring to support healthy growth. Avoid using too much high-nitrogen fertilizer, as it can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.

The Jewel blueberry is a fantastic choice for those looking to grow a productive and tasty blueberry bush, especially in warmer climates. Its adaptability, high yields, and delicious berries make it a must-have for any southern garden.