BLUEBERRIES

Blueberries look as though they should grow in tropical climates; the prices in the shops reflect this. You might be surprised to learn that our damp climate and acid soil is just what these plants need to flourish. The fruit is very closely related to the Irish bilberry you might have picked when out for a walk in the hills. Blueberries have been grown commercially since 1992 in Co. Offaly.

Blueberries require light, free-draining acidic soils, with plenty of rich, organic matter if they are to thrive. The soil should have a pH of between 4 and 5.5, similar to the requirements of rhododendrons and camellias. It is possible to lower the pH levels of your soil with sulphur chips or dust. However, they will need to be added three weeks before planting to take effect. Monitor the soil's pH every few years, because it may be necessary to add acid. If you do not have suitable soil, simply grow blueberries in a pot containing acidic soil, giving the plants a high potash feed (such as tomato feed) occasionally during the growing season. See if you can find someone with an established bush and take some cuttings. If you want named varieties such as chandelier or earliblue. Companies such as Thompson and Morgan sell the plants. They are expensive but you will soon recoup your investment. (click on title for link)

Growing tips

Plant two different varieties of blueberries to ensure cross-pollination. A single blueberry plant will produce fruit, but the yields will be higher and the fruits bigger if more than one plant is grown.

Blueberries require a position in full sun or light shade.

Plant blueberries in the dormant season leaving about 1.5m (5ft) gaps between them.

Mulch with a layer of acidic peat, wood chippings or pine needles.

Water the plants in well.

There are quite a few varieties to choose from so get the best for your site. Other types include:

'Bluetta'

'Bluetta' is a fairly tasty and vigorous, compact variety, with a spreading habit, producing a medium-sized, light blue berry.

'Patriot'

This blueberry is a high-yielding, vigorous, hardy variety with medium to large blue berries and excellent flavour.

'Bluecrop'

This variety has large, light blue berries with good flavour. It is slightly aromatic and has excellent orange and copper leaves in autumn.

'Herbert'
Many people say that 'Herbert' is the tastiest variety of blueberry. It produces large berries and has moderate vigour.

Horticultural.