Lowbush Blueberry

Lowbush Blueberry, Common Lowbush Blueberry, or Vaccinium angustifolium, is a native, low-growing, deciduous shrub that is commonly used to colonize open ground, but can be used in a variety of landscapes and yards. This versatile, hardy shrub has twiggy branches filled with bell-shaped white buds that bloom in late spring. These light, airy flowers are surrounded by glossy dark green foliage that transforms into a deep maroon and purple in the fall, adding to this shrubs already ample landscaping appeal. In midsummer, the flowers of the Lowbush Blueberry give way to delicious edible blue to black fruit. These blueberries are candy-sweet, juicy, and full of antioxidants, fiber, and flavonoids. Lowbush Blueberry is a prolific bloomer, and several buds can grow on a single stem. These buds can hold several blossoms each, leading to masses of fruit beloved by humans and wildlife alike. It is a special favorite of black bears. Lowbush Blueberry Plant Care The Lowbush Blueberry should be planted in the early spring. During the first and second year, remove the flowers of the plant to ensure the energy goes to support better root growth. Your Lowbush should be pruned every other year to encourage berries. Prune just after harvesting and remove old and unproductive growth. The Lowbush will spread easily, so prune away edges and side shoots if you want to control the spread. It requires good air circulation to maximize fruiting, and should be planted at least 2 to 3 feet apart with lots of room to grow. The Lowbush Blueberry is fire-tolerant, spreading vigorously, even in areas where wildfires have ravaged the land. Growing Lowbush Blueberry Bushes The Lowbush Blueberry is an optimal choice for woodland areas or any open area with well-drained, slightly-acidic to acidic soil. The ideal pH for blueberries is 4.5 to 5.0. Lowbush is very cold-hardy and can tolerate hard freeze with ease. Lowbush will produce the most berries when grown in full sun to partial shade. It will grow in shady areas, but will not produce many berries. It is a mounding shrub that grows from 6 to 24 inches tall with a spread of 18 to 24 inches. The lowbush can be planted indoors so long as they receive ample chilling time, about 1,000 hours, and ample sunlight, at least six hours per day. In especially cold climates, spread a 2 to 3 inch layer of mulch over your Lowbush to retain moisture and protect root systems. Growing Lowbush Blueberry in Containers Lowbush Blueberries can be grown in containers. The ideal container should be at least 2 feet deep and 2 to 3 feet side. Berries grown in containers will need more watering. The moisture level should be kept consistently moist, but not soggy. Choose a container that isnt black to prevent your lowbush from absorbing too much heat and losing moisture. Watering Lowbush Blueberry Bushes Your Lowbush Blueberry should be watered regularly and kept evenly moist. Your location should be well drained, as standing water will rot delicate roots. Especially in the first year of growth. Feeding Lowbush Blueberry Bushes Slow release acid fertilizer is the best for your Lowbush. It should be applied lightly in the early spring. Avoid over fertilizing your Lowbush, as it is sensitive to salt.