Growing Blueberries In Zone 10

Assessing your garden for the right conditions for any crop is essential. For blueberries a tiny spot that gets a full days worth of sun is key along with well draining acidic soil which most berries and herbs prefer. 

Blueberries thrive in soil that is acidic (pH should ideally be between 4.0 and 5.0). Soil that isn’t acidic enough will stunt growth. You can acidity your soil a few months before planting by mixing in a small amount of Peat moss and pine bark or needles.

The blueberry is a shallow-rooted plant and requires a soil that holds moisture, but also drains well and doesn’t stay wet. Avoid planting blueberries in heavy, clay soils that stay wet.

Tips for Growing Blueberries

1. Acidify soil with peat moss a few months before planting if necessary.
2. Plant blueberry bushes in March and November.
3. Plant in full sun. Blueberries can grow  in shade, but grow best in the sun. 
4. Protect from harsh winds.
5. Plant blueberries away from trees. Any trees will suck up any moisture in the soil.
6. Space bushes 4–5 feet apart in a row, with at least 8 feet between rows.
7. Don’t scatter blueberry plants. Plant a blueberry patch with multiple plants to bolster berry production and quality.
8. Mix acidic matter into the soil before you set your blueberry bushes.
9. Do not to plant blueberry bushes too deeply. The root ball should be 1/2” below the surface. 
10. Plant in holes twice as wide and twice as deep as the roots of the plant.
11. Set the bush in the hole with the root ball just below the surface and its roots spread out. Pack the hole tightly with soil.
12. Apply fertilizer one month after planting, not at the time of planting. Apply 1⁄2 ounce of a 10-10-10 fertilizer in a band around the plant 6 to 12 inches from the crown.

Companion Plants for Blueberries

1. Mint - mint serves as a natural mulch and pest repellent for blueberries. Mint will repel pest especially if cut frequently to boost its aroma. Mint will also help blueberries grow by helping keep the moisture in soil to encourage blueberry fruit. Mint is best for potted blueberries as mint is a prolific spreader which can quickly takeover your garden. Plant mint 12” from your blueberry plant. 
2. Basil - Speeds up growth
3. Thyme - Speeds up growth