The Blueberry is a flowering plant of the genus (Vaccinium). There are blueberries that are native to South America, Asia, and Europe. Blueberries are native to North America and they produce fruit that matures to a blue color. Blueberry bushes typically bear fruit from late spring to summer. Commercially grown blueberries are generally divided into 3 types; lowbush or wild blueberries, highbush, and evergreen blueberries. There are approximately 30 species throughout various regions. The highbush is mainly found on the east coast, the lowbush in the Northeast and Canada, and the evergreen in the Pacific Northwest.
The blueberry is acknowledged to have a high leveler of anti-oxidants than any other fruit. They also contain very high levels of vitamins C and A. Fully ripened blueberries contain the most anti-oxidants. Various studies have show that blueberries are beneficial in anti-aging, disease prevention, eyesight, cholesterol levels, arteries, memory, and weight control.
Blueberries will perform well in a number of soil types as long as they are acidic and high in organic matter. Blueberries have shallow roots that are sensitive to soil compaction and poor drainage. Blueberries require acid soil with a pH below 5.5 and they do best when the pH is between 4.5 and 5.0. Blueberries should be pruned regularly after they reach 3 years of age. Remove damaged branches and less vigorous, spindly growth around the base of the plant. Blueberry bushes are best pruned when they are dormant and early spring pruning can help eliminate any winter damage to the plants.
My fascination with fruit trees and what I learn along the way.
