Blueberry - Premier (Rabbit Eye)

Directions for Planting and Care

Planting and caring for your Premier Blueberry (Rabbit Eye) is simple and rewarding, ensuring a bountiful harvest of delicious berries:

Planting

Select the Right Location: Choose a sunny location for your Premier Blueberry shrub. It thrives in full sun, which is crucial for optimal fruit production.

Prepare the Soil: Ensure the soil is acidic, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, amend it with pine bark or peat moss to improve drainage and acidity.

Dig a Proper Hole: Dig a hole that is at least twice the width and depth of the root ball. This will give the roots plenty of space to establish themselves and grow.

Plant the Blueberry: Remove the plant from its container, gently break up the root ball, and place it in the hole. The top of the root system should be level with the surrounding soil. Fill the hole with native soil and any leftover potting material, pressing down to eliminate air pockets.

Water Thoroughly: After planting, give your blueberry bush a thorough watering to help settle the soil and provide moisture for the roots.

Care

Regular Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during dry periods. Ensure good drainage, but avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as blueberries prefer slightly moist conditions.

Pruning: Prune in late winter or early spring, removing old or damaged canes to encourage new growth. For established bushes, remove one-quarter of the oldest canes each year to maintain healthy production.

Mulching: Apply 2–3 inches of mulch, such as pine bark, around the base of the bush. This will help conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and stabilize soil temperature.

Fertilization: Feed your Premier Blueberry with a balanced, acid-loving fertilizer in early spring and midsummer. This will support healthy growth and abundant fruit.

The Premier Blueberry is a fantastic choice for gardeners looking to enjoy a large, early-season harvest of sweet, firm berries. Its vigorous growth, ease of care, and excellent fruit quality make it a reliable and rewarding addition to any garden. With its early-season ripening and consistent yields, you can expect bountiful crops year after year.