Blueberry Bushes

Blueberry Bush FAQs

Take a look at some of the frequently asked questions we receive from those looking to buy Blueberry Bushes in the UK. You can contact our Customer Service Team or browse our general FAQs for further advice.

When to Plant Blueberry Bushes

The best time to plant blueberry bushes is in late autumn or early spring, when the plants are dormant. Autumn planting allows the bushes to establish their roots before the growing season begins, while spring planting should be done before new growth starts. Blueberries thrive in acidic, well-drained soil, so it's important to prepare the planting area with plenty of organic matter, such as peat moss, and to test the soil pH to ensure it is between 4.5 and 5.5. Space the bushes about 1 to 1.5 metres apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.

How to Grow Blueberry Bushes

Growing blueberry bushes successfully starts with choosing the right location. Blueberries require full sun and acidic soil, so it's essential to test and amend your soil if necessary. If your garden soil is not naturally acidic, consider growing blueberries in raised beds or large containers filled with ericaceous compost. Blueberries have shallow root systems, so keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the base of the plants with pine needles or bark can help retain moisture and maintain soil acidity. Pruning is important to encourage healthy growth and fruit production; remove any dead or weak branches and thin out old wood to promote new growth.

How Long Does It Take to Harvest Blueberries?

Blueberry bushes typically start to produce fruit in their second or third year after planting. However, full harvests usually begin in the fourth or fifth year as the plants mature. The berries are usually ready to harvest from June to August, depending on the variety. Blueberries are ripe when they turn a deep blue colour and easily detach from the stem with a slight twist. It's best to pick the berries regularly to encourage continuous production and to prevent overripe fruit from attracting pests.

Why Grow Blueberry Bushes?

Growing blueberry bushes offers many benefits beyond their delicious, antioxidant-rich berries. Homegrown blueberries are often more flavourful than store-bought ones, which are picked early to withstand transport. Blueberry bushes are also relatively easy to care for, requiring minimal pruning and maintenance once established. They can be grown in a variety of garden settings, including pots, making them suitable for smaller spaces. Additionally, blueberry bushes can provide years of productivity, with some varieties producing fruit for up to 20 years or more, making them a long-term investment in your garden.

Where Can You Grow Blueberry Bushes?

Blueberry bushes are versatile and can be grown in traditional garden beds, raised beds, or large containers, making them ideal for both small and large gardens. They thrive in acidic, well-drained soil and prefer full sun to partial shade. In cooler climates, blueberries benefit from being planted in a sheltered spot to protect them from late spring frosts. If you're growing blueberries in containers, make sure to use ericaceous compost and a pot with good drainage. With the right care, blueberry bushes can thrive in most UK gardens, providing a reliable and tasty harvest for many years.

Why Blueberry Bushes from Marshalls?

• Our customers are supported by a team of experts dedicated to providing valuable advice. You can also use our growing guides, backed by 70 years of experience, to get the best results from your Blueberry Bushes.
• You can contact us six days a week – including bank holidays – to discuss our products and services or to chat about all things gardening.
• We pride ourselves on offering fast delivery on all orders, with any 'in stock' plants and seeds sent out within three working days. We're green-fingered in more ways than one, too, thanks to our fully recyclable packaging.
• We won second place at the 2022 Great British Growing Awards for Best Online Retailer.
• Thousands of five-star reviews on Feefo and a 100% satisfaction guarantee on all our products show that we're a company you can trust.