If you wander through nature you can sometimes find blueberries here and there. But you don't have to do any extra searching. You can also plant blueberries in your own garden.
Anyone who likes to eat blueberries (also known as blueberries) is not only eating a low-calorie diet, but is also doing something for their he alth. Blueberries have many benefits. On the one hand they reduce cell damage, on the other hand they lower the risk of developing cancer. But that's not all. Blueberries are also a miracle cure for the skin. They prevent premature skin aging and help against cellulite and acne. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
All in all, the little blue berry is a true miracle cure. And you can even grow it yourself in the garden. Since it takes up little space, the blueberry is even suitable for small gardens. In addition, the blueberry is easy to care for. There are just a few key points to keep in mind when growing.
This is what the right location for blueberries looks like
Blueberries like it warm. Accordingly, you should choose a sunny location that is protected from extreme weather and wind. The wind must not be constantly blowing at the site, otherwise the soil will dry out too quickly.
As for the soil, it should be nicely drained. A mixture of garden soil, sand and compost is ideal. The soil must also be low in lime, because too much lime means that the roots can no longer absorb important nutrients. It's best to do a soil test (instructions here) to see if the soil is good for blueberries.
You can also cultivate the blueberries in pots. However, you must note that the pot must be quite large and have sufficient drainage holes to avoid waterlogging.
How to properly plant blueberries
Blueberries are best planted in spring. After the ice saints, to be precise, when no more frost is to be expected. Then you should dig planting holes with a diameter of half a meter, in which the blueberries are placed. Keep a planting distance of one meter. If you want to plant the blueberries in tubs, thenshould have a diameter of about 50 centimeters. Plant the blueberries fairly flat and only cover them loosely with soil.
How to properly care for the blueberries
Casting:
Blueberries need a lot of water. If they dry out only slightly, you will see this immediately on the leaves. They then dry out immediately. But the flowers and berries can also fall off. So you need to water the blueberries regularly to keep the soil nice and moist. It is best to use only stale water for this, as normal tap water is often too hard. However, it is best if you use rainwater.
Fertilize:
If you want to do something good for your blueberry plants, you can fertilize them in spring (around April). A special blueberry fertilizer is ideal (e.g. available here). Alternatively, you can also use rhododendron fertilizer. When the next fertilization has to take place depends on the fertilizer used. It is best to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Cut:
You don't actually need to slice the blueberries. However, it makes sense to use the secateurs about every five years and cut off old shoots close to the ground. This gives the young shoots more strength. But don't be too radical when pruning, because the blueberry plant doesn't tolerate that at all.
Hiberation:
When winter is slowly approaching, you need to bring the blueberries that you have planted in the tub indoors. Choose a frost-free but not too warm room for the winter. You still have to water in the winter months, but not as much. Make absolutely sure that there is no waterlogging.
If you have planted your blueberries in the bed, it is advisable to cover the plants with straw, bark mulch, brushwood or garden fleece. So they are well protected from the cold.