How to Grow Blueberries

Planting, Care and Pollination

Blueberry

Introduction to Blueberries

Blueberries are one of the most versatile and healthy berries around! They are high in vitamins, polyphenols, and anthocyanins. Delicious eaten fresh off the shrub, there is also a dizzying number of ways they can be used—ranging from sweet to savoury—and even featured in juices and wines.

History

The Vaccinium family of plants has been around for thousands of years and were an important part of the First Nations community long before Europeans colonized what is now Canada. These plants grow around the globe in higher latitudes. Blueberries were not cultivated commercially until the early 20th century. Today, North American blueberry cultivars are also grown in places like New Zealand and South America.

Container Growing

Many blueberries can be grown in containers as long as their soil pH and moisture needs are met. Companion planting with wild strawberries in a large pot (about the size of a half oak barrel) helps retain moisture, and the acidic pH enhances the strawberries’ tangy flavour.

Pollination

Many varieties are self-fruitful, but your yield will increase with more plants and multiple varieties that bloom at the same time. A variety of bees, including bumble bees and the smaller blueberry bee, help pollinate these shrubs. Interestingly, blueberry pollen is released by a specific wing vibration frequency unique to these pollinators.

Vaccinium Bluecrop
Blueberry Nelson
Vaccinium Blueberry Glaze


Planting

Blueberries and other members of the Vaccinium family thrive in loamy, acidic soil with a pH between 4.3 and 4.8. They require consistent moisture and benefit greatly from a yearly mulch application—hemlock, fir, or pine blends work well. For best production, plant in a sunny spot. Use a good blueberry or rhododendron fertilizer before and after blooming. It’s critical to provide adequate water during the first year to help your blueberry establish strong roots. These plants are slow to establish but will reward you for years to come!

Pruning Blueberries

Pruning usually begins in year two or three. It’s done during the dormant season and is key to long-term plant vigor. Start by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches at any time. Follow the 1/3 rule—never remove more than a third of the plant in one session. Remove a few of the oldest canes right down to the base to allow space and energy for new growth. This keeps the plant rejuvenated and productive.

Arts Nursery Logo
Address
8940 192nd Street,
Surrey, BC, Canada,
V4N 3W8

Phone
Tel: (604) 882-1201
General Email
info@artsnursery.com
Sales/Order Inquiries
orders@artsnursery.com
Contact Us
Contact Us
Visiting Us
Hours of Operation
Map & Directions

Art's Nursery is dog friendly

REG HOURS
Mon 9:00am - 6:00pm
Tue 9:00am - 6:00pm
Wed 9:00am - 6:00pm
Thu 9:00am - 6:00pm
Fri 9:00am - 6:00pm
Sat 9:00am - 6:00pm
Sun 9:00am - 5:00pm
Holidays 9:00am - 5:00pm

Art's is open all stat holidays except Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years

KEEP IN TOUCH
Copyright (c) 2025 Art's Nursery Ltd.  | 8940 192nd Street, Surrey, BC, Canada, V4N 3W8  | tel: 604.882.1201  | SiteMap  | Privacy Statement |

Cart Preview

Your Cart Is Empty