From their trademark blue berries in the summer to their rich glossy green leaves in the late fall and early spring, blueberry plants are marvelous additions to any garden. Often overlooked by gardeners, blueberry bushes can add a splash of color and a fresh attitude to all outdoor spaces. Known for their hardy nature and low maintenance, blueberries can add that extra something special you didn't know your yard was missing!
The blueberry fruit has been hailed as a miracle substance for years due to the high levels of antioxidants and nutrients found within the navy flesh. Its sweet harvest and quaint, wholesome attitude has long made blueberry plants a favorite of north eastern properties. But did you know that blueberries can grow in lots of different climates? From the humid reaches of Florida to the arid climbs of Arizona, you can find a blueberry variety that is able to adapt to the elements and flourish. All they need is a little TLC and they will yield a succulent berry crop just about anywhere.
The key things that blueberries need to flourish are good soil and proper moisture level. When selecting soil to put around your blueberry plant, remember that they do best with slightly acidic earth. Not too acidic, of course, because you'd corrode the root system, but somewhere around a pH of five to six is best. Also, be sure the soil is nice and loose so that the roots can properly drain. Water-logged root systems will cause the blueberry bush to go into survival mode and prevent any flowers or berries from being produced.
When watering your blueberry plant, it is important to resist the urge to overwater. Remember that outdoor plants already receive a lot of their moisture from the natural humidity in the air and any precipitation. Unlike house plants that are literally on a restricted water diet, outdoor plants receive water from myriad other sources than you; it is vital to keep this in mind when you have the garden hose in hand. Your blueberry plant will tell you when it needs water by drooping its leaves, however the only way it will tell you it has had too much water is by refusing to bloom or produce fruit, and by that point it is often too late for the season.
Blueberry bushes can live a long time; some last over fifty years. As you cultivate your bushes, prune judiciously, especially in the first five years of the plant. At this point, it is at its most vulnerable, and any over pruning or attack on the major artery branches of the bush will stunt its growth and ability to produce fruit for the rest of its life. A good rule of thumb when it comes to pruning is to pause before you cut and ask, "Do I really need to remove this branch, or is it just a cosmetic change I am trying to make?"
Blueberry plants are truly wonders of nature. Their beautiful flowers, bright and cheerful leaves, and beloved fruit are a wonderful addition to any garden in just about any climate. Whether you are deep in the woods of New Hampshire or out along the plains of Kansas, there is a blueberry variety that will bring your outdoor space to life. So make some room in your garden and pull out your blueberry cook book, because this is sure to be a wonderful harvest.
Author Resource:-
Sandy Winslow is a writer on topics relating to health and wellness. Hardy blueberry plants are beautiful additions to any garden and can bring even the most casual gardener joy year round.
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://article2008.com/images/feed-icon.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
![[Valid RSS feed]](http://article2008.com/images/icon_Rss.png "XML Feed For RSS"){kind=icon}
Category Rss Feed
Print This Article
Add To Favorites