Do blueberries grow well in containers?
Written by
Paul Reynolds
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Growing blueberries in containers is a wonderful option, provided proper care is given. You gain control over the soil acidity, which is vital for these plants. A 5-gallon pot minimum with drainage holes is recommended, preferably placed in full sun daily. My balcony bushes did better than the garden bushes. Plus, I was harvesting lovely berries in three years.
For acidic soil, mix equal amounts of peat moss and pine bark combined. Test the pH monthly with digital meters and maintain it between 4.0 and 5.0. I do it more frequently in the summer heat to check levels. Water until the excess coin drains out the bottom. I check it daily because of the summer heat - it keeps them from leaf scorching.
Feeding Schedule
- Apply acidic fertilizer monthly in spring
- Use half strength during summer months
- Stop feeding six weeks before first frost
- Water thoroughly after each application
Winter Protection
- Wrap pots in burlap before freezing temps
- Elevate containers on wooden blocks
- Move to sheltered areas below 20°F
- Water monthly during dormancy
Look for your first harvest to be around year three. Berries can be picked as soon as they are fully blue and easily detach from the stem. The developing fruit should be protected by bird netting. Put the netting up when you see color in the berries. Pick the berries every two days when they are in peak harvest. Depending on the care, container plants can yield pounds of berries annually!
Read the full article: How to Grow Blueberries in Pots Successfully
