Canadian blueberry: Blueberries have always been one of the most popular fruits. It is no coincidence that they have become part of the gardens, and thanks to the delicious sweet taste, the wide use in the kitchen and the rich healing effect, more and more gardeners are starting to grow them.
The demand for growing this sweet vitamin bomb is rising for several reasons. The main ones are the fruits themselves and the possibilities of their processing. However, Canadian blueberries are also gaining the favor of gardeners because of their ornamental function. With the right care, it can also serve as a decorative shrub capable of beautifying any exterior. The advantage is also undemanding cultivation and the need for only basic care during growth.
Where did the Canadian blueberry come from?
As the name implies, this increasingly popular shrub has its origins overseas. It was bred only in 1987, but in more than 30 years it has spread to various parts of the world. The reason for its rapidly growing popularity is the possibility of undemanding cultivation at home. The variety was bred so that the Canadian blueberry grew rapidly, bore the largest possible fruit, was resistant to pests and could be outdoors all year round.
Typical features of Canadian blueberry are…
- The shrub itself can grow up to a height of 2 meters.
- In most cases, it reaches 1.5 to 1.7 meters.
- Blueberry flowers are white, bloom in April and May.
- Blueberry fruits ripen from mid-August.
- Their color is blue to purple, inside they are burgundy.
Why is Canadian blueberry grown?
How is Canadian Blueberry Planted?
The selected variety can be planted in a large spacious flowerpot, in which the roots will have enough space to spread, or straight into the ground. If you plant more than one bush at a time, in the latter case, it is recommended to keep at least 50 cm differences between them. Gardeners who have experience with their cultivation also recommend planting close to other types of plants. Thanks to this, blueberries will be better pollinated and thus healthier and more fertile.
What are the conditions for growing Canadian blueberry?
Soil
The right choice of soil is key to fast and healthy blueberry growth. The type of substrate is not so decisive as its ph. This should range from 3.5 to 4.5. The soil should also be well permeable and as airy as possible.
Location
You have open options when looking for the best place to grow. Canadian blueberry takes place in partial shade and in direct sunlight. In both cases, you will be rewarded with a rich harvest full of healthy and tasty fruits.
Temperature
The optimal temperature is also related to the position. Canadian blueberries do not tolerate much. Among several varieties of blueberries, this one is one of the most resistant, while it can also handle frosts. Thanks to this, it can be grown all year round outside in the garden.
Planting period
Most gardeners recommend planting Canadian blueberries in the spring, preferably sometime in mid-April. Nothing, but you won’t spoil it even by planting during the warmer days of September or October, when the bushes still have enough time to take root before the arrival of frosts.
What care does Canadian blueberry require?
Topping
Canadian blueberry doesn’t need too much water. It is enough to water it once every few days. Care must be taken to soak the soil, which could damage the roots. These can then begin to rot.
Fertilization
There is no need to overdo it even with fertilization. Fertilization is recommended in spring and then during autumn, preferably with high-quality acid fertilizers with a high nitrogen content. You can also supply the necessary nutrients to the blueberries using peat mixed into the soil.
Cutting
The growing shrub will sometimes need pruning, especially if it is also grown for ornamental function. In the first year, you only trim damaged branches. Later you can also move to the so-called “Rejuvenating cut” and pruning the individual young shoots. It should be pruned only in late autumn or early winter.
Protection
The good news is that blueberries do not suffer from diseases under local conditions. However, when the fruit ripens, you can cover it with a protective net to prevent birds looking for sustenance in the form of sweet fruit.
